Illinois State Bar Association
Illinois Trial Lawyers Association
American Association for Justice
Avvo Rating Top Attorney Immigration
The National Trial Lawyers
American Immigration Lawyers Association

O-1A Visa

The O-1A visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. To qualify for an O-1A visa, applicants must demonstrate that they have achieved a level of expertise that is significantly above that of their peers in their field. At Zneimer & Zneimer, our experienced immigration attorneys can help you navigate the O-1A visa application process and analyze each criteria to determine if you qualify.

To qualify for an O-1A visa, applicants must meet at least three of the following criteria:

  1. Documentation of the beneficiary's receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor;
  2. Documentation of the beneficiary's membership in associations in the field for which classification is sought, which require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts in their disciplines or fields;
  3. Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about the beneficiary, relating to the beneficiary's work in the field for which classification is sought, which must include the title, date, and author of such published material, and any necessary translation;
  4. Evidence of the beneficiary's participation on a panel, or individually, as a judge of the work of others in the same or in an allied field of specialization for which classification is sought;
  5. Evidence of the beneficiary's original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field;
  6. Evidence of the beneficiary's authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional journals, or other major media;
  7. Evidence that the beneficiary has been employed in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation; or
  8. Evidence that the beneficiary has either commanded a high salary or will command a high salary or other remuneration for services, as evidenced by contracts or other reliable evidence

At Zneimer & Zneimer, our experienced immigration attorneys can help you analyze each criteria and determine the strongest evidence to present to USCIS. We will work with you to gather the necessary documentation, such as awards, publications, and letters of recommendation, and present a strong case to USCIS.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Someone rear-ended my car last spring and I was injured. Peter and Sofia Zneimer and they staff were professional and were always available by phone. I knew that the insurance of the other driver wasn't very good but they were still able to settle my case promptly and I was satisfied with the money I received. Overall, a very good trusted experience. Natig M.
★★★★★
I highly recommend the services of Zneimer and Zneimer. I often seek legal advice from them related to my immigration status and way forward. Both Sofia and Peter are very detailed and quick in answering any question. I laud their professionalism and a very efficient team that works for them. Suman S.
★★★★★
I totally recommend Sofia, she is the best lawyer in Chicago area. She is very professional, very detailed with her work and supportive. She always goes above and beyond to ensure the best outcome. Caring, compassionate and only the best for your family. I won my case because of her professionalism and her knowledge of the law. Aurel P.
★★★★★
I have dealt with Sofia Zneimer since 2009. She is a great lawyer and has helped me tremendously in navigating the process of green card. She is a great resource to have by your side. She is easy to reach. She responds very quickly, which was very important for me. If she can’t answer the question the same day, she does let you know that she is working on it. I would have no hesitation in recruiting her. Hemant S.
★★★★★
I called Zneimer & Zneimer after I was rear-ended on the highway. Peter and Sofia Zneimer have been very helpful in dealing with the insurance company and getting money for my car damage. They are also handling my injury case. They answer all my questions and I am always able to reach them on the phone anytime I want to talk to them. I am confident in having them represent me. The best choice i ever made. Thank you! Emil G.