O-1B Visas for Content Producers, Streamers and Influencers

Oakhurst Legal Group enjoys a very successful O-1B visa practice for freelance content producers that are outside of the motion picture industry.  Freelancers can present some unique challenges to presenting O-1B arguments to USCIS but we routinely get visas approved for content producers, influencers and other content based professions. 

What is the timeline of filing an O-1B Visa application?

O-1B visa petitions are very fact specific and require input from our clients to be successful. In general, our team turns out initial drafts within a matter of days and then begins to ask clients for additional information. This is because the need for additional information is recognized as arguments are formed in the drafting process. While drafting, the team will discover where there are gaps in the proof of certain categories, of which, three need to be proven. 

The O-1B visa eligibility categories are as follows: 

• 
  Being the main or lead performer in productions or events that have gained recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally (as proven by critical reviews, advertisements, press releases, publications contracts, or endorsements).
• Critical reviews of published articles in reputable or influential trade publications or in major media outlets, either by or about the applicant, that demonstrate the applicant has gained recognition or accomplished notable things at the national or international level.
• Proof of performing in a lead, starring or critical role for a highly recognized organization or establishment, which showcases great skills and abilities.
• Proof demonstrating significant accomplishments in the performing arts industry, as demonstrated by box office receipts or the sales of recorded materials such as records, cassette tapes, compact disk, or video sales.
• Proof of notable accomplishments being acknowledged by organizations, reputable groups, government agencies, or acknowledged leaders in the industry.
• Proof of previously earning a high salary or other substantial compensation for services compared to others in the same field. 
• Other relevant proofs (This category is not available for those in the motion picture industry)

The ultimate time in preparing the petition relies on how quickly clients can return with the additional information. 

What is the cost of the entire process of filing an O-1B visa?

There are two options available for the O-1B visa processing: 

• expedited processing (Government Fees $2950) - 15-day responses after submission to USCIS.

or  regular processing (Government Fees $460) - 2-5 Month Average Responses after submission to USCIS.

 Optional Petitioner Services

Every Beneficiary needs a Sponsor/Petitioner to sign the immigration forms and serve as an address in the United States. A sponsor or petitioner can be any of the following.

•  Any company or business located in the United States (will need EIN Number)
• A US Citizen (Will need a passport and sometimes birth certificate)
• A US Green Card Holder (Will need a passport, Green card copy, and birth certificate

           What does it mean to be a petitioner?

https://www.oaklg.com/petitioner

1. Asserts that the contents of the visa application are true

2. Agrees to receive service of process for the athlete (this means they can sue at your address, but there is no risk of liability to the petitioner.

Please contact us if there is no petitioner available. 

Consular Processing Service Options and Support (Optional Service)

Here is the link to the Consular Processing Service description and recommendations of our Attorneys: https://www.sherrodsportsvisas.com/consularservices 

History of O-1B Success with Influencers, Streamers & Content Producers

At the time of this writing, Oakhurst Legal Group enjoys a 100% approval rate on O-1B visas