Behind every extraordinary performance or athletic achievement is a team of skilled professionals who make it possible. The O-2 visa is designed for those essential crew members and support staff who accompany O-1 visa holders to the United States. At D’Alessio Law, we help entertainment and sports professionals secure O-2 visas so they can keep their projects moving forward.
What Is an O-2 Visa?
The O-2 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa for individuals who provide critical support to O-1 visa holders. While the O-1 category is reserved for people with extraordinary ability, the O-2 allows the people who support the O-1 visa holders to work legally in the U.S.
This category recognizes that no production, tour, or competition succeeds without the dedicated professionals working behind the scenes.
Who Qualifies for an O-2 Visa?
To be eligible for an O-2 visa, your role must be essential to the O-1 visa holder’s performance or production. Examples of qualifying roles include:
- Stagehands, camera operators, lighting designers, songwriters, and sound engineers
- Editors and content creators
- Makeup artists, costume designers, and choreographers
- Trainers, coaches, or managers supporting athletes
- Longtime team members whose continued collaboration is vital to the project
Your work must be tied directly to the O-1 visa holder and limited to the specific productions, performances, or competitions that brought you to the U.S.
Application Requirements
A successful O-2 application requires strong documentation. Some of the materials commonly needed include:
- A written advisory opinion from a labor union or peer group
- Contracts showing your professional relationship with the O-1 visa holder
- An itinerary of events, performances, or productions in the U.S.
- Proof that your skills are unique and not easily replaced by U.S. workers
We work closely with clients to ensure that each piece of evidence is presented in a clear, persuasive way.
The O-2 Visa Process
The O-2 visa process involves several steps:
- Petition Filing – The O-1 visa holder’s U.S. employer or agent files Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf.
- Approval Notice – Once USCIS approves, a Notice of Action is issued.
- Visa Application – With that approval, you apply for the O-2 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country.
- Interview – You attend a consular interview and provide supporting documents, including your passport, evidence of your qualifying relationship with the O-1 visa holder, and evidence of your qualifications.
- Visa Issuance – If approved, you receive your O-2 visa, allowing you to work in the U.S. for the duration of the project.
Duration of Stay
The O-2 visa is generally granted for the same length of time as the O-1 visa holder’s project, up to three years. Extensions may be available in one-year increments if the work continues.
Family Members and the O-3 Visa
If you are granted an O-2 visa, your spouse and children under the age of 21 may apply for O-3 visas to accompany you. While O-3 visa holders cannot work in the United States, they are permitted to attend school and remain with you for the duration of your authorized stay. This provides an option for families who wish to stay together during the visa holder’s time working in the United States.
How D’Alessio Law Can Help
At D’Alessio Law, we understand the fast-paced demands of the entertainment and sports industries. Our team will:
- Review your eligibility and prepare a tailored application strategy
- Coordinate timing so your O-2 petition aligns with the O-1 process
- Work with unions, agents, and production companies to gather documentation
- Anticipate challenges and resolve issues before they delay your project, performance, or competition.
We are committed to helping you continue your work without unnecessary interruptions.
Contact Experienced Beverly Hills O-2 Visa Attorneys
If you’re part of a team supporting an O-1 holder, securing an O-2 visa is the key to joining them in the United States. Let us guide you through the process and help you present the strongest case possible.
Contact D’Alessio Law today to schedule a consultation and start your O-2 visa application with confidence.
Based in Beverly Hills, D’Alessio Law proudly serves clients nationwide and throughout the world.