Can I get divorced and remarry while on O-1?

Yes. The O-1 is granted based on your professional achievements and extraordinary ability in your field, not on your marital status. Therefore, getting divorced and remarrying does not, in itself, affect your visa status, as long as you continue to meet the criteria that supported the original approval.

The key concern lies in the indirect effects. Changes in marital status can have consequences for those who depend on you, especially if a spouse or family members hold a derivative visa. In those cases, the family relationship that supported the benefit changes and may require an update with immigration authorities.

Keep in mind that:

• your O-1 remains valid as long as you continue to meet the visa requirements;
• changes affecting dependents may require notification or new petitions;
• keeping your records accurate avoids complications in future applications.

Since every family situation is unique, if the change involves dependents or new petitions, confirm the procedures with USCIS or a specialist to make the transition smoothly.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.