For decades, the United States drew international stars – musicians, actors, those at the pinnacle of traditional entertainment. Now, a new wave of “talent” is seeking to build careers within its borders, driven by the explosive growth of the digital world.
The O-1 visa, traditionally reserved for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, is increasingly being sought by a different kind of performer: OnlyFans creators, TikTok influencers, and other popular content creators.
Securing this visa isn’t a solo endeavor. A U.S. employer, agent, or a foreign employer working through a U.S. agent must petition on the applicant’s behalf, providing substantial evidence of their extraordinary talent.
Immigration attorney Raymond Lahoud, based in Pennsylvania, notes a dramatic shift in the O-1B visa landscape. “O-1B visas have been dominated by influencers and content creators,” he explains, describing applicants with millions of followers and substantial earnings.
Lahoud’s perspective is direct: if a creator demonstrably meets the O-1B requirements, the visa should be granted. He acknowledges the changing definition of “extraordinary ability” in the digital age.
The surge in applications from digital creators is a relatively recent phenomenon, fueled by the global shift towards online entertainment during the pandemic. While traditional industries faced disruption, influencers continued to build audiences and generate revenue.
Despite the changing applicant pool, overall O-1 visa issuances have remained consistent, hovering around 20,000 annually for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, according to the State Department.
USCIS adjudicators evaluate applicants based on whether they are coming to the U.S. temporarily to continue work requiring extraordinary ability. A clear flowchart guides the process, and approval can be swift for those who meet the criteria.
The ease of quantifying success in the digital realm – follower counts, engagement rates, earnings – streamlines the evaluation process. Data is readily available, offering concrete metrics of influence.
Lahoud points out a striking contrast: an OnlyFans model can amass millions of followers, while a scientist publishing groundbreaking research might struggle to reach even a few dozen readers. Yet, both could potentially qualify for the same visa.
He argues that an influencer’s work is no different than that of a writer, actor, or any other profession. In the case of OnlyFans creators, he asserts, “acting is acting,” regardless of the platform.
The reach of digital content is unparalleled. An OnlyFans production, Lahoud notes, can circulate globally far faster than any traditional film or streaming release, redefining the scope of an artist’s impact.
