O-1A petition roadmap
Work backwards from the day you want to start. Each step shows whether its timing is a USCIS rule (with the source) or typical practice.
Check the current time on USCIS processing times ↗ (Form I-129). It differs with premium processing.
Adjust preparation stages
Defaults reflect the timelines immigration firms publish (about 6 weeks). They are typical practice, not USCIS rules.
Enter your target start date and the processing time to see your roadmap.
Dates are estimates built from your inputs; USCIS and consulates do not commit to them. For informational purposes only, not legal advice. Your inputs stay in this browser.
How this works
Enter your target start date, where you'll be when USCIS decides, and your own estimate of the USCIS decision time (from the USCIS processing times page). The roadmap works backwards: evidence, letters, preparation, review, filing, decision, start.
Preparation stages default to 14, 14, 10 and 4 days, labeled typical practice and editable. The one sourced rule it enforces is that a petition may not be filed more than 1 year before the actual need for your services (Policy Manual Ch. 7 A).
Questions
- Where do the processing times come from?
- From you: the roadmap asks for your estimate and links to the USCIS processing times page, because our sources don't include processing times.
- Are the stage lengths USCIS rules?
- No. They are typical practice, labeled as such, and you can change them.
- Can I add the dates to my calendar?
- Yes. The roadmap exports a standard .ics calendar file.