O-1 status is designed for those foreign nationals who have and can prove “extraordinary ability in science, education, business or athletics.”

O-1 status can be requested for the duration of a project, but it cannot be requested for more than an initial 3 year period. Please note that all extensions are granted in increments of only 1 year.

The beneficiary must prove evidence of extraordinary ability or sustained international or national acclaim. This can be done by showing receipt of a major internationally recognized award, such as a Nobel Prize, or by documenting at least 3 out of 8 criteria.  O-1 extensions must include additional evidence proving the continuing extraordinary ability of the foreign national.

Note: Many O-1 employees are also eligible for H-1B status, so often NC State University will prepare an H-1B petition instead of an O-1 petition.

 

To initiate a O-1 petition:  The department/unit needs to access the new GlobalHome portal to initiate an O-1 petition and  complete the electronic forms and upload all requested documents to IE for processing. To gain access to the portal, please follow the instructions in the Department HR User QuickStart Guide.

For a quick list of documents that will be needed from the unit, as well as information about the addresses that will be needed for the FedEx label and the AP check request process, please click on the Department HR User Checklist, the Immigration Fees Chart, and the FedEx Address Chart. Please note that NO checks should be mailed directly to USCIS; please indicate on the check request form that Jill Blitstein will pick-up the check when it is ready.

The sponsored employee needs to fully complete the requested information in the GlobalHome portal, and upload ALL requested documents for processing. To get access to the portal, an existing employee should follow the instructions in the Current NC State Employee QuickStart Guide and a new employee should follow the instructions in the New Hire QuickStart Guide. For a list of documents that will be needed, the employee should review the All Employee Users Checklist and the Immigration Fees Chart. General information (created by IE) about the I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status for family members is available in this guidance document.

 

International Taxation

Please note that all foreign nationals employed at NC State University are required to meet with the International Compensation & Taxation unit at the time that they first become employed.  Foreign nationals are also required to notify this unit of any changes in nonimmigrant status, employment and residential address.  To schedule an appointment or notify this unit of such changes, please send an email to ictquestions@ncsu.edu.