O-2 Nonimmigrant Visa
United States
Last updated: December 30, 2025
3 years (renewable)
$205
2-3 months
Medium
About this Visa
The O-2 visa is for people who help famous or talented workers in the U.S. You might be a stage manager, personal assistant, athletic trainer, or technical specialist. You work only for one specific person (called the O-1 principal) who has extraordinary ability in their field. This visa lets you enter the U.S. and work with that person. You cannot work for anyone else or take a different job. Your visa depends on the O-1 person's visa—if theirs ends, yours ends too. This visa is different because you're not the main talent. You're the essential support person who makes their work possible.
Key Benefits
- Work with specific O-1 principal
- Stay as long as O-1 visa is valid plus 10 days
- Bring spouse and unmarried children under 21
- Multiple entries and exits while visa valid
- Extend stay in 1-year increments
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18 or older
- No criminal record
- No serious health issues
- No prior visa violations
- Must have worked with O-1 principal before
- Must have special skills in your field
- Must plan to return home after visa expires
- Must speak enough English for your job
Financial Requirement
No minimum income or savings required for applicant. Employer must pay salary.
Documents
- Valid passport6+ months remaining validity
- Form I-129Employment petition filed by employer
- Form DS-160Visa application form
- Employment contractShowing job duties and salary
- Work history proofEvidence of prior work with O-1 principal
- Labor union letterUnion approval stating you are essential
- Medical exam resultsFrom USCIS-approved physician
- Police clearanceIf lived abroad 12+ months
- Home country ties proofEmployment letter, property, or family relations
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.