O-1 visa holders enjoy the flexibility to work for multiple employers in the United States, but each employment must be backed by a separate USCIS-approved petition. This can be achieved either through individual petitions from each employer or via a single agent petition that represents multiple employers.
Working through an O-1 visa agent streamlines the process—allowing multiple engagements to be consolidated under one petition that clearly outlines all contracts, dates, locations, and compensation associated with your professional activities.
However, if you plan to add new employers or make significant changes to your existing work arrangements, you may need to file a new or amended petition. It is crucial that all your professional activities remain consistent with the approved petition to maintain lawful O-1 visa status.
This ability to collaborate with multiple employers is one of the greatest advantages of the O-1 visa, yet many applicants remain unaware of how it actually works. Below, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain how the process functions and how you can make the most of your opportunities as an O-1 visa holder.
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What Is an O-1 Visa?
The O-1 visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in their field—whether in the sciences, education, business, athletics, or the arts. These professionals have achieved national or international recognition for their exceptional talent and accomplishments.
There are two main subcategories of the O-1 visa:
- O-1A: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics.
- O-1B: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the motion picture or television industry.
Each subcategory has specific criteria established by USCIS. To qualify, applicants must meet at least three of the eight evidentiary requirements within their category, demonstrating a record of success supported by documentation, awards, and other proof of distinction.
Can O-1 Visa Holders Work for Multiple Employers?
Yes, O-1 visa holders can legally work for multiple employers in the United States. However, because the O-1 is a non-immigrant work visa, it must always be sponsored by a U.S. employer or agent—self-petitioning is not permitted.
If you plan to take on multiple projects or work as a freelancer or contractor, there are two main options available:
Option 1: Multiple Concurrent Employer Petitions
Each employer must submit a separate Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) to USCIS on your behalf. Each petition must include an employment agreement that details your job duties, wages, and other terms of engagement. Employers are also required to include a detailed itinerary describing the specific work you’ll perform under their sponsorship.
Option 2: Agent-Sponsored Petition
This is often the most practical choice for professionals who work with multiple organizations, such as artists, consultants, or freelancers. Under this arrangement, an O-1 agent—who may act as your employer or as a representative of several employers—files a single consolidated petition with USCIS.
The petition must include:
- Contracts or summaries of agreements between you and your employers or clients.
- A detailed itinerary with all dates, locations, and project descriptions.
- The compensation terms for each engagement.
All professional activities must match what is listed in your approved petition(s). Engaging in work that is not specified in your O-1 petition violates your visa terms and could jeopardize your legal status.
If you’re unsure whether your current or future engagements comply with your O-1 visa terms, consult with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link today for expert guidance.
Adding a New Employer or Engagement
If you plan to take on additional work after your O-1 visa has been approved, you may need to file a new or amended petition to reflect the change. However, certain professionals in the arts or entertainment industries may add new performances or engagements within the petition’s validity period without filing an amendment, depending on the specific circumstances.
For personalized guidance on adding new employers or engagements, schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link.
How to Work for Multiple Employers on an O-1 Visa
To work for multiple employers, your agent or employer must file Form I-129 with USCIS. The agent must be properly authorized to represent you as a petitioner. The U.S. agent may act as:
- The actual employer,
- An agent representing multiple employers, or
- An agent representing foreign employers.
When the Agent Acts as the Employer
In some cases, the U.S. agent serves as the actual employer of the O-1 beneficiary. This is typically defined by the contractual agreement between the two parties. If the agent exercises control over your work—such as determining assignments, hours, or compensation—they can function as your employer.
For example, in creative fields such as art, music, or film, an agent often plays this role, helping you secure and manage engagements across the industry. To validate this relationship, your application must include:
- A copy of the employment contract, specifying job duties and compensation.
- A complete itinerary outlining all work activities, including dates and locations.
Each petition is evaluated individually by USCIS, so the documentation must clearly establish the nature of the relationship between the agent and the beneficiary.
O-1 Visa Agent for Multiple Employers
If you plan to work with more than one employer under an O-1 visa, your petition can be filed through an agent who acts as the representative for both you (the beneficiary) and your employers. In this case, the agent must provide documentation proving that each employer has authorized them to act on their behalf.
The supporting evidence must include:
- A complete itinerary outlining all engagements or services to be performed for each employer.
- The itinerary should specify dates, addresses, and names of every employer, along with the venues or locations where the services will be provided.
- Copies of contracts between the O-1 visa holder and each participating employer.
Types of Multiple Employment Under the O-1 Visa
The O-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities across diverse professional fields. This flexibility allows recipients to perform different types of work for multiple employers—as long as all engagements are listed in the itinerary submitted to and approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
If you later need to make material changes to your itinerary or employment contracts, you may be required to file an amended O-1 petition through your employer or agent.
Understanding “Material Changes” in O-1 Agreements
Under O-1 visa regulations, any material change to your employment terms must be reported to USCIS and approved before taking effect. Determining what qualifies as “material” can sometimes be confusing, as it depends on the nature of the change and its impact on your employment terms.
To avoid complications, it is best to seek guidance from an immigration attorney at Green Card Link before making any modifications to your employment arrangements.
Changing Employers on an O-1 Visa
O-1 visa holders may change or add employers, provided the correct procedure is followed. The new employer must file a petition with USCIS on your behalf.
If your initial petition was filed by an agent, that agent will need to submit an amended petition including supporting documentation for the new employer. In many cases, this petition can also request an extension of stay if additional time is needed to complete your ongoing engagements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for multiple employers on an O-1 visa?
Yes. O-1 visa holders can work for several employers simultaneously through what is known as concurrent employment. However, each employer must be properly authorized under a valid petition.
What are the USCIS requirements for concurrent employment?
Each employer must file a separate O-1 petition for the same beneficiary. Alternatively, a U.S. agent can file one consolidated petition covering multiple engagements, provided that a detailed itinerary and related contracts are submitted.
How does using an agent petitioner work?
An agent can serve as the petitioner for professionals who have multiple ongoing projects or contracts. This approach is commonly used by artists, consultants, and entertainers. The agent submits the petition to USCIS, along with copies of all contracts and an itinerary describing the various engagements.
Is the O-1 visa tied to a specific employer?
Yes. Initially, your O-1 visa is linked to the employer or agent who filed your petition. If you want to switch or add employers, a new petition or an amended one must be filed and approved before you start new work.
What is “dual intent” under the O-1 visa?
“Dual intent” allows O-1 visa holders to maintain temporary nonimmigrant status while also pursuing permanent residency (a green card). This feature makes the O-1 category particularly appealing for professionals who may later apply for long-term U.S. residence.
How Green Card Link Can Help
The O-1 visa process can be complex, especially when it involves multiple employers or an agent petitioner. Every detail—from itineraries to contracts—must meet strict USCIS requirements.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys specialize in handling O-1 visa petitions, including those with concurrent employment. With extensive experience navigating U.S. immigration law, immigration attorneys at Green Card Link have successfully helped numerous clients secure O-1 visas and continue their professional careers in the United States.
Schedule a consultation today with Green Card Link to receive personalized guidance on preparing, filing, and managing your O-1 visa application with confidence.