I work in tech and have built a solid portfolio with some media coverage and patents. I’m considering switching from H-1B to an O-1 visa to avoid H-1B restrictions. Has anyone successfully transitioned? How strict is the USCIS when evaluating O-1 cases for tech professionals?
both requires employer sponsorship. however I think you can bag your h1b if you switch to O, which means once you can’t use O anymore, you don’t have to go through the lottery again. you’ll only need an employer to sponsor for h1b transfer to activate your h1b. this can prolong the legal stay time for you to wait for your greencard application.
Hey @ultra2 — sounds like you’ve already built a strong case! 
I’ve seen a few tech professionals successfully make the H-1B to O-1 switch, especially those with patents, media coverage, and a solid portfolio. USCIS does scrutinize O-1s carefully, but if you can clearly show extraordinary ability with solid evidence across multiple criteria, it’s absolutely doable.
Key tips:
- Focus on quality over quantity — strong letters, notable publications, major contributions to your field.
- A good immigration attorney who knows tech-specific O-1 cases can make all the difference.
- It’s not a quick process, but the freedom from H-1B limitations (like job changes or cap issues) can be worth it.
If you’re already considering it, you’re probably more qualified than you think.
– Jill
it depends on what type of work you wanna do.