Renewing an O-1B visa involves extending your stay or obtaining a new visa stamp if you're traveling outside the U.S. The process differs depending on whether you're in the U.S. or abroad. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. If You Are in the U.S.

Extending Your O-1B Status

• Eligibility: You can apply for an extension if:
  • You continue working in the same role or project specified in your initial petition.
  • You have new or extended engagements requiring your O-1B status.
• Steps:
  • • File Form I-129:Your sponsor or employer must file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
    • Indicate that the petition is for an extension.
    • Provide Supporting Documents:Updated evidence of ongoing or new projects (e.g., contracts, offer letters, itinerary).
    • Proof of your continued extraordinary ability.
    • Pay the Fees:Filing fee: $460 (as of January 2025).
    • Optional: $2,500 for premium processing for a 15-day decision.
• Processing Time:
  • Standard processing can take weeks to months, but premium processing expedites it to 15 days.
• Approval:
  • If approved, you receive a new Form I-797 with an updated expiration date.
  • This allows you to remain and work in the U.S., but it does not provide a new visa stamp in your passport.

2. If You Are Outside the U.S.

Renewing Your Visa at a U.S. Consulate

• Eligibility: If you need a new visa stamp in your passport to re-enter the U.S., you must apply for renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
• Steps:
  • • Complete Form DS-160:Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form online and print the confirmation page.
    • Schedule an Appointment:Book an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
    • Some applicants may qualify for an interview waiver (e.g., if renewing within 12 months of the previous visa expiration).
    • Prepare Documents:Valid passport.
    • Form I-797 Approval Notice.
    • Confirmation of DS-160 submission and visa application fee payment.
    • Supporting evidence of your ongoing extraordinary ability and U.S. work.
    • Attend the Interview (if required):Be prepared to discuss your renewal and current U.S. work.
• Processing Time:
  • Visa issuance times vary by embassy or consulate but typically take a few days to weeks.

3. Important Considerations

• Timing: File for an extension or renewal well before your current O-1B status expires to avoid gaps in authorization.
• Travel: If you travel abroad without a valid visa, you must obtain a new visa stamp to re-enter the U.S.
  • Changes in Employment:If you are changing employers or adding new projects, your sponsor must file an amended or new petition.

Documents Checklist

For both extension and renewal, you’ll need:

• A valid passport.
• Form I-129 (for extension) or DS-160 (for renewal abroad).
• Form I-797 Approval Notice.
• Updated evidence of continued extraordinary ability.
• Contracts, offer letters, and itineraries for ongoing or new projects.
• Proof of past achievements (if required).