For the O1 visa, the term “petitioner” refers to the entity or individual who files the petition on behalf of the O1 visa beneficiary. The petitioner is responsible for submitting all the necessary documents to USCIS to get approval for the O1 visa.
Let’s explain in simple terms who can sponsor an O1 visa, by looking at the differences between an agent and employer petitioner and the O1 visa sponsor requirements. We’ll also look at a few scenarios where an agent petitioner can be the best choice as a sponsor.
What is the O-1 visa?
For the O1 visa, the term “petitioner” refers to the entity or individual who files the petition on behalf of the O1 visa beneficiary. The petitioner is responsible for submitting all the necessary documents to USCIS to get approval for the O1 visa.
Let’s explain in simple terms who can sponsor an O1 visa, by looking at the differences between an agent and employer petitioner and the O1 visa sponsor requirements. We’ll also look at a few scenarios where an agent petitioner can be the best choice as a sponsor.

How is the O1 visa different from other work visas?
For the O1 visa, the term “petitioner” refers to the entity or individual who files the petition on behalf of the O1 visa beneficiary. The petitioner is responsible for submitting all the necessary documents to USCIS to get approval for the O1 visa.
Let’s explain in simple terms who can sponsor an O1 visa, by looking at the differences between an agent and employer petitioner and the O1 visa sponsor requirements. We’ll also look at a few scenarios where an agent petitioner can be the best choice as a sponsor.
When can you use an O1 visa agent as a petitioner?
Let’s take a look at a few scenarios where an agent could sponsor an O1 visa, instead of the employer.
- Scenario 1: A US agent files for self-employed workers, like freelance graphic designers, content creators, business consultants, or authors.
- Scenario 2: A US agent files for workers who use agents to arrange short-term employment with numerous employers. This is particularly relevant for industries where agency relationships are super common, such as modeling, entertainment, sports music, etc.
- Scenario 3: A US agent files for a foreign employer who authorizes an agent to act on its behalf. A US agent files for a foreign employer who authorizes an agent to act on its behalf.