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The costs of applying for an O-1B visa involve several fees and expenses. Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:
1. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Fees
These are the mandatory government fees associated with filing the visa petition.
- Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): $460
- This is the base fee for submitting the petition to USCIS.
- Premium Processing (Optional): $2,500
- If you need expedited processing, USCIS will process the petition within 15 calendar days. This is optional but often used if time is a constraint.
2. Visa Application Fee
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160): $185
- Paid when you apply for the visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
3. Additional Costs
- Consultation Letter Fee: Varies
- Many O-1B applicants must obtain a letter of consultation from a peer group, labor organization, or management organization in their industry. Some unions or organizations charge a fee for issuing this letter, which can range from $250 to $1,000 depending on the organization.
- Attorney Fees (Optional): $3,000–$10,000
- While not required, many applicants hire immigration attorneys to prepare and file their O-1B petition. Fees vary depending on the attorney’s experience and the complexity of the case.
- Documentation Preparation: Varies
- Costs associated with gathering evidence, such as:
- Translating documents (if necessary): $20–$50 per page.
- Copying and notarizing documents.
- Obtaining supporting materials (e.g., media coverage, professional letters).
- Costs associated with gathering evidence, such as:
- Travel Expenses: Varies
- Travel costs for attending a visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy, including flights, accommodation, and other related expenses.
Estimated Total Costs
| Expense Estimated Cost (USD) | |
| USCIS Form I-129 Fee | $460 |
| Premium Processing (Optional) | $2,500 |
| Visa Application Fee (Form DS-160) | $185 |
| Consultation Letter Fee | $250–$1,000 |
| Attorney Fees (Optional) | $3,000–$10,000 |
| Documentation Preparation | Varies (e.g., $200–$500) |
| Travel Expenses | Varies |
Total Estimated Costs:
- Without attorney and premium processing: $895–$2,145
- With attorney and premium processing: $6,395–$14,145
Additional Notes
- The exact cost depends on whether you choose premium processing, hire an attorney, or require a consultation letter.
- Employers often bear some or all of these costs, especially if they are sponsoring the applicant.
- Dependents (spouse and children) will incur additional fees for their O-3 visa applications.
It's always recommended to consult with an immigration attorney to better understand the costs specific to your situation.
