Success Story: Approval of an O-1A Extraordinary Ability Visa for a British Squash Coach 

Success Story: Approval of an O-1A Extraordinary Ability Visa for a British Squash Coach 

Our client, a British Squash coach, reached out to our firm to assist him in securing a visa to the U.S. Given his outstanding achievements in Squash, and his intent to move to the U.S. to branch out his bespoke coaching, the O-1A Extraordinary Ability Visa was the perfect specification for our client! 

The O-1A visa is a nonimmigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics, demonstrated through sustained national or international acclaim. To qualify, applicants generally must meet at least 3 of 8 regulatory criteria, such as; receipt of major awards, published material about them, high salary, or serving in a critical role for a distinguished organization. They can also show evidence of a one-time major achievement like a Nobel Prize. It’s typically granted for up to 3 years initially, with extensions available in increments to continue the same event or activity, and requires a U.S. employer or agent to file the petition on the applicant’s behalf.

With constant liaison between our client, us, and the U.S. Embassy in London, our firm was able to secure the O-1A visa, in only a matter of months! The O-1A visa for our client was granted for three years! He is now on his way to working as a bespoke Squash trainer! 

Every O-1A case hinges on building a compelling, well-documented case that meets USCIS’s demanding criteria. As this client’s success shows, having a firm that knows how to present extraordinary achievement clearly and liaise closely with consular officers can make all the difference in securing approval quickly. If you’re a professional, athlete, or specialist with a record of national or international acclaim and are considering a move to the U.S., Blue Lake Law can help you build a strong O-1A petition and guide you through every step of the process. Reach out to us today to discuss your case.