O-1

O-1 US Extraordinary Ability Visa for Kazakhstan Citizens 2026

The O-1 visa is a non-immigrant U.S. visa for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. It is intended for Kazakhstan citizens who have demonstrated national or international recognition in sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, or the motion picture and television industry.
The O-1 visa remains available in 2026 and is not subject to annual quotas.

O-1 visa categories

O-1A

• Sciences

• Education

• Business

• Athletics

O-1B

• Arts

• Motion picture and television industry

The category depends on the applicant’s professional field.

What the O-1 visa allows

• Legal employment in the United States in the approved field

• Work only on activities listed in the petition

• Participation in projects, events, or productions covered by the approval

• Residence in the U.S. for the duration of approved work

• Bringing eligible dependents under O-3 status

All work must align with the approved itinerary.

What the O-1 visa does NOT allow

• Employment outside the approved field or activities

• Working without an approved petition

• General employment unrelated to extraordinary ability

• Staying beyond authorized periods without extension

Any material change requires a new or amended petition.

Who can apply from Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan citizens may qualify for an O-1 visa if they can prove:

• Sustained national or international recognition

• Extraordinary ability demonstrated through awards, publications, media coverage, or leadership

• Active work in the field of extraordinary ability

• A U.S. employer or agent sponsoring specific work

The standard is significantly higher than regular work visas.

What visa officers really check

Authorities evaluate:

• Strength and credibility of evidence

• Level of recognition compared to peers

• Relevance of achievements to the proposed work

• U.S. employer or agent legitimacy

• Consistency of professional narrative

Quality of evidence matters more than quantity.

Validity and stay rules

• Initial approval: up to 3 years

• Extensions: unlimited 1-year increments while work continues

• Entry type: multiple

• Stay is tied to approved activities

Remaining without valid approval is a violation.

Petition and evidence requirements

• Petition must be filed by a U.S. employer or agent

• Advisory opinion from a relevant peer group is usually required

• Detailed itinerary of work is mandatory

• Evidence must show extraordinary ability, not potential

Self-petition is not allowed.

Common reasons for refusal or denial

Most denials occur due to:

• Insufficient evidence of extraordinary ability

• Achievements not meeting the required standard

• Weak linkage between achievements and proposed work

• Poorly structured petition

• Inconsistent professional profile

A well-prepared case is critical.

How to apply

The process includes:

• Employer or agent files O-1 petition

• Petition approval by U.S. authorities

• Completing the DS-160 form

• Attending a visa interview

• Receiving a decision

Preparation of evidence is the longest stage.

Important note for 2026

• O-1 visas are available for Kazakhstan citizens in 2026

• No annual quota or lottery applies

• O-1 allows dual intent, permitting future immigration applications

Unsure if O-1 fits your profile?

Before applying, it is recommended to evaluate your achievements against O-1 standards.
A professional assessment helps determine realistic chances and case strength.

Additional conditions

Employment is permitted only within the approved activities and field.

The O-1 visa allows dual intent, meaning permanent residence may be pursued later.

An interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate is mandatory for almost all applicants from Kazakhstan.