O-1 Extraordinary Ability Workers
This category is meant for individuals with extraordinary ability in the areas of science, art, education, business, or athletics. This is not a common status used to bring employees to the University.
O-1 petitions are coordinated through the International Services Office (ISO) and prepared by an immigration attorney; the hiring department pays the legal and filing fees associated with the submission.
To discuss a potential or current O-1 petition, please contact ISO Scholar Services with questions or to make an appointment.
O-1 Eligibility and Coming to the US
Travel Permissions and Required Documentation
O-1 temporary workers may enter the US up to 10 days before the employment start date. Please bring your:
- Valid passport
- Complete copy of the O-1 petition (which was filed with USCIS to obtain the approved O-1)
- The original O-1 approval notice (USCIS form I-797)
- Valid I-94 card
- DS-160
- Valid O-1 visa stamp in the passport (excluding Canadian citizens)
- Copies of last two months' pay statements from the University of Rochester, or other financial proof
O-3 Dependents
O-1 temporary workers may bring their dependent spouse and children with them on O-3 status. The dependent status is based directly on the primary worker’s valid status. There are important restrictions on study and work for O-3 dependents. Visit our dependent spouses and children page to learn more.
When traveling, O-3 dependents should have the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Valid O-3 visa stamp (excluding Canadian citizens)
- Proof of dependent relationship (marriage or birth certificates)
- Valid I-94 card
- Copies of primary O-1 documents, if traveling alone (see above)