How I Earned My Way Into the US (O1 Visa Guide)

Summary

The video is a detailed guide on obtaining the O-1 extraordinary ability visa, which allows individuals to work in the U.S. for three years with a path to a green card. The speaker, a 20-year-old college dropout, explains how to build qualifications for the visa through achievements like judging hackathons, earning prestigious awards, and building relationships with experts. The video also covers important legal and immigration advice, including avoiding mistakes when applying for visas, and emphasizes the importance of networking and perseverance in achieving success in Silicon Valley.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The most important decision for success is where you live, especially in the context of pursuing opportunities in the US.
• 💼 The O-1 extraordinary ability visa allows for 3 years of working in the US with a clear pathway to the EB-1 green card.
• 🛂 It's essential to avoid working illegally on a tourist visa (B1/B2), as this can lead to being blacklisted from the US.
• 🏆 To qualify for the O-1 visa, applicants need to meet at least three out of eight qualifications, such as judging competitions, receiving awards, or having media features.
• 📚 School doesn't teach the importance of relationships, which are crucial for building a strong O-1 visa case through expert letters and endorsements.
• 🏢 Starting a company or playing a critical role in a US-based organization can support the O-1 visa application.
• 🚀 Hackathons are an easy way to qualify for judging competitions, which is one of the key qualifications for the O-1 visa.
• 👔 Press features in well-known media outlets, like TechCrunch or Forbes, help validate achievements and boost visa applications.
• 💰 High compensation or significant equity in a company can demonstrate extraordinary ability, especially if it puts you in the top 5-10% of earners in your field.
• 🤝 Building and maintaining long-term relationships with influential people is key to obtaining strong letters of recommendation for visa approval.

Q & A

What is the 01 Visa and who is it for?

The 01 Visa is a U.S. Visa granted to individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, education, business, arts, or athletics. It allows holders to work in the U.S. for up to three years and provides a clear pathway to apply for a green card (EB-1).

What are the main qualifications needed to apply for the 01 Visa?

To qualify for the 01 Visa, individuals need to meet at least three of the following qualifications: judging the work of others, holding a critical role in an organization, winning national or international awards, membership in distinguished organizations, high compensation, media coverage, scholarly contributions, and publications in major outlets.

How can someone start building qualifications for the 01 Visa?

Individuals can begin by participating in relevant events like hackathons, building relationships with industry experts, contributing to scholarly publications, taking on critical roles in organizations, or winning notable prizes in their field. It’s essential to gather evidence of these achievements and secure expert letters for the application.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when entering the U.S. on a tourist visa?

Common mistakes include overstaying the visa, re-entering the U.S. too frequently without justification, or admitting at the border that you plan to work. It’s important to never say you're entering the U.S. to work under a tourist visa, as that could lead to being blacklisted.

How important are relationships in securing the 01 Visa?

Building relationships is crucial for obtaining expert letters and for gaining access to opportunities that help meet the qualifications for the 01 Visa. Many aspects of the visa application, like judging competitions or securing critical roles, rely on personal networks and relationships.

How can participating in hackathons help with the 01 Visa application?

Participating in or judging hackathons can qualify applicants under the 'judging others' category. Additionally, hackathons related to your field can help prove your expertise and allow you to build connections that can lead to further qualifications.

How can founders argue their role in a startup for the 01 Visa?

Founders can argue that they hold a critical role in their own company by showing how their leadership is integral to the company’s success, especially if it involves employing U.S. workers or raising significant venture capital.

How does media coverage contribute to the 01 Visa application?

Media coverage in recognized publications helps to establish the applicant’s prominence in their field. The more reputable the publication and the more relevant the coverage to the applicant’s field, the stronger the case for the 01 Visa.

What should be included in expert letters for the 01 Visa?

Expert letters should be written by distinguished individuals in the applicant’s field and must highlight the applicant’s achievements and extraordinary abilities. The letters should provide specific examples of how the applicant has contributed significantly to their field.

What is premium processing and why is it recommended for the 01 Visa?

Premium processing is an expedited service for 01 Visa applications that guarantees a result within 15 calendar days for an additional fee of $2,500. It is recommended to avoid long processing delays, which can take several months.