Anyone applied for O1 as a painter/Fine artist?

[Ptitchou 117]

Hello,

 

Has anyone here had experience with applying for an O1 visa as a fine artist? While I am personally going through the CR-1 path right now, a close friend has become engaged to a well-known individual in the film industry in the US and is a very successful painter in their own right, earning a respectable living with solely the profits of their paintings. While many are sold through a Canadian gallery, there are many others that are done by private transaction. So having an "employer" sponsorship in the US is not feasible with someone who freelances. 

 

While they've been in talks with lawyers (and they will hire one), I've offered to post here on their behalf because I know how overwhelming the process is. They're trying to find out if there's a better way to stay legally in the US faster than a K-1 or CR-1 so this may be a faster option. They're currently together in LA now until Feb so as not to overstay the B2 visa.

 

If using an agent for sponsorship, what kind of requirements are there? They likely would have no trouble getting references from people in their field and they have a degree in fine arts as well. 

 

Any summary or advice anyone here can give while they're also looking for lawyers who specialize in this would be greatly appreciated because Visa Journey folks have been such an invaluable resource during my own journey. 

 

Thanks! 

[Liam2021 583]

Consult with lawyer will be the best.

• O-1A: Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics (not including the arts, motion pictures or television industry);
• O-1B: Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television industry;

[designguy 1,179]

47 minutes ago, Ptitchou said:

stay legally in the US faster

If they get married now they can adjust status and stay. They just wont be able to work/travel until they get an EAD/AP