CREATIVE Artists, Researchers, scholars, & SCIENTISTS
This page brings together the O-1, EB-1A, and P visa categories because all are achievement-based options for individuals who have distinguished themselves in their field—whether in the sciences, arts, business, education, or entertainment.
Clients exploring one pathway, such as the O-1, are often eligible for another,
Extraordinary Ability & Distinguished Professionals -
Visas for Artists, Researchers, and Innovators: O-1, EB-1, P, NIW
Visas for Artists, Researchers, and Innovators: O-1, EB-1, P, NIW
Visas for Artists, Researchers, and Innovators: O-1, EB-1, P, NIW
If your work has received national or international recognition—or is of clear public value—we can help you navigate the most fitting immigration pathway.
At Kennedy Law, we help visionary talent turn extraordinary achievement into permanent opportunity. Whether you're a celebrated artist, an acclaimed performer, or a scholar shaping global understanding, we provide creative, strategic immigration solutions tailored to your work—and your future.
We proudly represent individuals across the arts, entertainment, design, research, and education sectors. Kennedy Law assists clients in extraordinary ability and achievement-based immigration, including the O-1, EB-1, P visas, and National Interest Waivers (NIW).
We work closely with individuals and institutions across creative and academic sectors, including:
- Artists, Musicians, Dancers & Performers
Painters, composers, vocalists, choreographers, actors, stage professionals, multidisciplinary creators
- Designers, Filmmakers & Media Professionals
Animators, cinematographers, UX/UI designers, digital artists, editors, producers, and creative directors
- Academics, Scholars & Researchers
Professors, independent researchers, postdoctoral fellows, thought leaders, policy experts, public scholars
- Other Creatives with Recognized Achievement
Culinary artists, fashion designers, athletes, models, writers, architects, and interdisciplinary creators
What Sets Kennedy Law Apart
At Kennedy Law, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your case is built with the care, creativity, and depth your work deserves. Clients choose us because:
- We understand both the legal framework and the creative/academic industries
- We don’t use templates—we tailor every petition to your voice, record, and goals
- We offer honest guidance, curated evidence strategies, and ongoing collaboration
- We advise on long-term planning, including adjustment of status, green cards, and family inclusion
If you are a creative professional, researcher, or academic with recognized achievement or high-impact work, we’re here to help you take the next step. Whether you're applying for your first O-1 or transitioning to permanent residency, our process is strategic, thoughtful, and fully customized to your field.
Extraordinary Ability & National Interest Immigration Pathways
Visas for Artists, Researchers, and Innovators: O-1, EB-1, P, NIW
Visas for Artists, Researchers, and Innovators: O-1, EB-1, P, NIW
We guide clients through the most strategic and effective immigration options available for high-achieving individuals:
EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability- Green Card)
Permanent residence without sponsorship for individuals with sustained acclaim. Ideal for artists, researchers, or scholars with major awards or an exceptional professional portfolio, for individuals with major awards or who meet at least three of ten evidentiary criteria. Self-petition—no employer or job offer required.
EB-1B (Outstanding Professors & Researchers - Green Card)
For tenure-track academics, tenured faculty or institutional researchers with international recognition and a record of high-level contributions with a permanent offer and a distinguished academic record.
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability - Temporary Work Visa)
Temporary visa for those at the top of their field. Strong O-1 cases are built on highlighting awards, press, expert letters, published work, and a documented history of distinction or record of sustained achievement. Includes O-1A (research/education) and O-1B (arts/entertainment).
O-2 / P-2 Support Staff – For essential team members like choreographers, directors, or assistants
P Visas (Performers, Artists & Cultural Presenters - Temporary Work Visa)
For performance groups, entertainers, and individuals involved in culturally significant programming, meaning internationally recognized performance groups (P-1) and for culturally unique artists (P-3), with or without sponsors. Includes P-1 (international recognition), P-3 (culturally unique), and their support staff.
EB-2 NIW National Interest Waiver (Green Card Without a Job Offer, without Employer Sponsorship)
For individuals whose work has substantial merit and national importance—whether in the arts, science, education, policy, or innovation. No employer or job offer required.
✔ Ideal for independent creatives, interdisciplinary academics, and public-facing researchers contributing meaningfully to U.S. culture, knowledge, or civic life.
Dual Intent: Keep Your Future Open
The O-1 visa allows dual intent, meaning you can simultaneously maintain a temporary visa while applying for a green card (EB-1 or NIW). We help you plan your long-term pathway—without disrupting your current work authorization.
O-3 & P-4 Visas for Family Members
Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of O-1 and P visa holders may apply for O-3 or P-4 dependent visas to accompany you to the U.S. While they cannot work, they may study and reside with you for the duration of your visa.We ensure your immigration strategy includes options for your family’s stability and presence.
Related Visa Options for Emerging Talent & Support Teams
Related Visa Options for Emerging Talent & Support Teams
Related Visa Options for Emerging Talent & Support Teams
In addition to the core extraordinary ability paths, we advise on related visas that support long-term planning and team-based work:
- F-1 with OPT / STEM OPT – For graduates of U.S. programs building a record before O-1 or NIW
- J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa – For visiting researchers, scholars, or cultural fellows
- H-1B Specialty Occupation – For professors or researchers at universities or nonprofit institutions
- B-1 for Short-Term Artists or Lectures – For unpaid exhibitions, lectures, or showcases
Our clients choose Kennedy Law because we don’t just know the law—we understand creative and academic careers.
Our Process: Strategic, Creative, Collaborative
Related Visa Options for Emerging Talent & Support Teams
Related Visa Options for Emerging Talent & Support Teams
Kennedy Law does not just assemble documents—we build the case around your story, impact, and goals. We craft a strategic case that reflects your unique story, contributions, and future goals, a compelling case grounded in your achievements and what you bring to the U.S. public.
Every petition is tailored to the unique strengths of your record. Whether you’re at the start of your career or ready to transition to permanent residence, our process is collaborative, strategic, and detail-oriented.
We take the time to:
- Identify best strategy customized based on your career goals, work, timeline, & long-term plans
- Prepare detailed legal arguments and curate persuasive evidence
- Collaborate on personal statements and gather powerful recommendation letters that connect your achievements to U.S. public benefit
- Honest advice & clear communication throughout the process
Our approach is personal, thorough, and always aligned with your professional narrative.
Kennedy Law - our commitment
At Kennedy Law, we are committed to presenting your achievements in the most compelling way possible, backed by strong evidence and a clear legal theory. We work closely with you to identify and highlight the professional milestones, awards, media coverage, and expert endorsements that demonstrate extraordinary ability. Every petition is meticulously documented and strategically framed to meet USCIS standards while anticipating and addressing potential challenges. Our process ensures your case is not just compliant, but persuasive—maximizing your chances for approval and building a foundation for future immigration goals.
Build Your Future with Kennedy Law
Contact us today to schedule a consultation offered in-person and virtually.
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