O-1 Employees

The information provided below applies to both initial applications to obtain O-1 status, as well as extending and/or transferring your current O-1 status.

After your hiring department submits an O-1 request in Sunapsis, the OIS will prepare a task order to refer the case to one of UMB’s outside immigration attorneys. Outside counsel will request information and prepare the O-1 petition filing on UMB’s behalf. They will also advise concerning any questions about the case.

O-1 status is employer and employment specific. Consult the OIS before any changes in your UMB employment. Examples of changes that must be authorized include:

• Title

• Number of hours worked

• Department

• Location

• Position duties

Generally, O-1 employees may not accept honoraria or payment from legal entities other than UMB.

The first O-1 petition may be granted for up to three years. Thereafter, extensions are in one-year increments (with some exceptions). There is no maximum number of extensions, although the employee must maintain intent to return to their home country.

Before departing the US, please complete the International Travel Reporting e-form in Sunapsis and schedule an online advising appointment.

Required documents to re-enter the United States:

• A valid passport

• A valid O-1 visa stamp*

• Evidence of continued employment (such as, three most recent paycheck stubs, employment verification letter, academic appointment letter)

• A valid O-1 approval notice.

• A copy of the entire petition. You should have received a copy of this from the immigration attorney that prepared the filing.

*In September 2025, the US Department of State announced  that all applicants should schedule their visa application interview at a US embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence. You should expect significantly longer wait times and may face greater difficulty qualifying for a visa if you apply outside your country of citizenship or residence.

All non-US citizens are required to report any changes in their residential address to the Department of Homeland Security within 10 days of the change. O-1 workers can report their address change by using the USCIS electronic change of address form.

Learn more about how to update your address with the University, Central Payroll Bureau, and benefits providers.

You may sponsor your spouse and unmarried children under age 21 as O-3 dependents. E-3 dependents (spouses and children) may study full- or part-time.