Does standing out in online e-sports competitions count for the O-1A or O-1B?

The O-1 is divided into two subcategories, and that is where your question gets resolved. The O-1A covers extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, and athletics, while the O-1B applies to the arts and the entertainment industry.

Because e-sports involve competition, strategy, and a high level of preparation, achievement in this field tends to align with the athletic category and is therefore generally analyzed under the O-1A. That said, the classification depends on how your profile and evidence are presented, and each case is evaluated individually.

• National or international recognition carries more weight than the number of matches played.
• Awards, rankings, industry recognition, and media coverage help support the case.
• The central point is demonstrating excellence above the average in your field.

Because the distinction between O-1A and O-1B can involve nuances, it is worth reviewing the current guidance from the USCIS and building your strategy with a specialist.

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.