Case Study 1: Jaime Rodríguez is an actor aspiring to collaborate with various theater companies and conduct improvisational workshops at local high schools and community colleges. Securing sponsorship from these employers individually poses a challenge for him, as most opportunities are short-term and infrequent. The schools provide Jaime with only two workshops each semester, while Theater Company A casts him in a role for a three-month season, and Playhouse B won't be able to release him until next year. Jaime is in touch with an art director who appreciates his work and is eager to assist him. Although the art director cannot hire him directly, she is willing to help create opportunities and act as the Petitioner for his visa.
Case Study 2: Jasmine Williams is a special effects artist who has caught the attention of Pixar Studios, which is interested in hiring her for a three-year position. This opportunity is a dream come true for Jasmine, but Pixar is only offering her part-time work—15 hours a week. While she has other jobs lined up, she is keen to keep this opportunity. As a result, Pixar will not act as Jasmine's agent petitioner or be managed by an agent. Instead, they will file an O-1 visa for her as her Employer Petitioner. If Jasmine wishes to take on freelance work outside of Pixar, she will need to file another O-1 visa application with a different agent petitioner or employer.
In summary, an O‑1 visa petitioner is a U.S.-based employer, agent, manager, sponsor, presenter, or organizer who is authorized to file O‑1 petitions on behalf of the beneficiary. The primary responsibility of the petitioner is to represent, under oath, that the information in the petition is accurate. They must also sign the petition along with a statement acknowledging potential liability for the cost of return transportation if the beneficiary’s employment ends prematurely. Additionally, the petitioner must provide basic details about their company, such as contact information, employee count, years in business, and tax identification number. Importantly, acting as a petitioner does not incur any further financial obligations.
We always recommend filing your O‑1 visa through an agent or manager, as this approach allows you to take advantage of multiple employment opportunities throughout your visa period. It is crucial that your petition includes language that permits you to work on projects beyond the original scope. For instance, if you secure additional employment after obtaining your O‑1 visa, your petitioner may sign an authorization enabling you to work under your current visa.
Whether your petition is submitted by a single employer or multiple employers, there is no requirement that you maintain a specific employment relationship with the petitioner. However, if the petition is filed directly through your employer, you will be limited to working solely for that entity.
It is also essential to note that if the petitioner ceases to represent you—for example, if you change agents or if the company that filed your petition no longer employs you—your O‑1 visa becomes invalid. In such cases, you must obtain a new or amended petition to continue working legally.
At Exceptional Artist and Liaison Services, we take the stress and complexity out of finding a petitioner by offering comprehensive sponsorship to qualified individuals. We can serve as your O‑1 Visa Sponsor on behalf of multiple employers, providing you with both flexibility and freedom in your industry. Think of our service as similar to an agent, but with one major difference: we do not take a percentage of your earnings. Instead, we offer affordable monthly and yearly packages.
By choosing us as your petitioner, you will receive a host of benefits, including:
- Relocation assistance
- Industry guidance
- Emergency support
- Quarterly check-ups
- Job updates
- Press release services
- Promotion via our social media and other channels
- Flexibility to work with multiple employers
- Membership benefits and discounts
Remember, having an O‑1 visa sponsor is crucial; without a petitioner, you cannot apply for an O‑1 visa. The petitioner may be known as a sponsor or agent, and you can choose a U.S. company or citizen to fulfill this role.
In the O‑1 category, there are three types of agents:
1. An agent for multiple employers, which allows you to work with various companies concurrently.
2. An agent who performs as the employer, effectively employing you.
3. An agent for a foreign employer, which permits you to work for a non‑U.S. company in the United States through a U.S. agent.
As your O‑1 visa sponsor, EAL will be responsible for ensuring that you continue to meet all USCIS employment requirements while working in the U.S. We are also in charge of signing all necessary paperwork and providing a complete itinerary of your engagements, which includes the dates, names, and addresses of the employers and venues, as well as copies of all relevant contracts and an explanation of the employment terms. Additionally, we include a statement attesting to your extraordinary abilities.
Ultimately, the choice of your agent is key to a successful application. As your petitioner, we go above and beyond to ensure the process is smooth and results in success.
Contact us today by email, and we will respond as soon as possible.
