For individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement, the O-1 visa is typically superior to the H-1B in almost every meaningful way, except for one major factor: the path to permanent residency. 1. What Is the O-1 Visa? The O-1A visa is for people who're really good at things like science, teaching, running a company or sports. The O-1B visa is for people who're really good, at art or have done something special in the movie or television business. It requires: Sustained