Other Scholars
Visa Categories
The United States offers visas for other circumstances, including for individuals of extraordinary ability, citizens of specific countries, and for short-term visits.
This visa status is for individuals of extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, arts or athletics. The O-1 visa allows employment for an initial term of up to three years and can be extended annually in perpetuity.
To qualify, an individual must provide evidence of having received a major internationally-recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize. Or the individual may provide evidence of at least three of the following:
- Recognized awards for excellence in the field of endeavor.
- Membership in associations requires outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized experts in their disciplines or fields.
- Published material in professional trade publications or major media, relating to work in the field.
- Participation as a judge of the work of others in the same or allied field of specialization.
- Scientific, scholarly or business-related contributions of major significance in the field.
- Authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional journals or in other major media.
- Employment in an essential capacity with organizations with a distinguished reputation.
- A higher salary or other remuneration for services, as evidenced by contracts or other such documentation.
Dependents of an O-1 may apply for an O-3 visa. An O-3 visa-holder may not be employed but may register for classes. O-3 status is valid for as long as the O-1 status is valid.
The TN non-immigrant can enter the U.S. for up to three years at a time and renew status in perpetuity.
TN status is employment-specific, so the visa holder can work only for UNMC, and 100 percent of the salary must be paid by UNMC.
For more information on TN status, visit the U.S. Department of State.
B-1 is a short-term visa of fewer than 90 days for business visits to participate in scientific, professional or business meetings; or to do independent research.
B-2 is a short-term visa for fewer than 90 days that is used for tourism, visiting family and friends, or medical treatment. This visa is not for visitors participating in any business or professional activity, including students or longer-term scholars.