When do I need to submit flight tickets?

In general, you do not need to submit flight tickets at the initial stage of your O-1 petition. In most cases, a draft itinerary or a statement of intent about when and how you plan to enter and exit the United States is sufficient.

This is common practice because purchasing tickets before a decision is made can lead to unnecessary costs and complications. The most prudent approach is to wait for visa approval before booking travel. In short:

• At the start, a provisional itinerary is usually enough.
• At specific stages, the officer may request reservations to confirm travel planning.
• Purchasing definitive tickets after approval reduces financial risk.

Keep in mind that requirements may vary depending on the consulate and your individual case. Always follow the guidance provided by the embassy or consulate responsible for your application.

If you have doubts about the right timing or the required documents, check the official instructions with the consulate before purchasing any tickets.

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.