Home Immigration Procedures Completing the Forms O-2 Petitions: Personnel Accompanying O-1B Artists O-2 Filing Specifics
O-2 Filing Specifics
Prepare O-2 petitions similarly to O-1B petitions, with these differences:
- If the petition includes more than one beneficiary, attach an alphabetized beneficiary list, using the USCIS Supplement-1 form or a column format (see "Blank Beneficiary Chart") that contains similar information. The list should go immediately after the O and P Classifications supplement, and before any consultations, and should be followed by copies of each beneficiary's passport biographical data page. USCIS examiners prefer the more accessible column format because they have to re-type the beneficiary information into their computer system. Be sure to supply a one- or two-word description of each beneficiary's job.
- As of April 1, 2024 the maximum number of beneficiaries that can be listed on an O-2, P-1B, P-3, or P-S petition is 25. A petitioner may include up to 25 beneficiaries seeking O-2 classification on the same petition if they will all be assisting the same O-1 for the same events or performances, during the same period of time, and in the same location. Be careful to keep track of which beneficiaries are being grouped together for each separate petition and make sure that all the other information regarding the classification period requested and supporting evidence for the group as a whole is identical. When a group petition requires being separated into multiple forms due to the 25 beneficiaries cap, these related petitions may be filed in one mailing (envelope) but each grouping must contain all supporting documentation (i.e. each must have its own cover letter, itinerary, evidence, copy of labor union consultation, etc. and separate check for filing fee).
- The main supporting documentation should be a statement from the petitioner in the petitioner's letter or, even better, the O-1B principal, describing the O-2 alien's critical skills and experience with the O-1B beneficiary, the nature of the assistance to be rendered, and its essentiality.
- Other documentation should include contracts, résumés (where feasible), and itineraries.