1. Immigration Attorney in New York — Client Background and Initial Consultation
The private chef who contacted our immigration attorney in New York had spent more than a decade cooking for exclusive clients, luxury retreats, and boutique events overseas.
Recently, a high-net-worth household in Manhattan extended an offer for a full-time private chef position, but the chef was unsure how to qualify for an O-1 extraordinary ability visa.
During the initial consultation, our immigration attorney in New York identified that the chef's awards, media features, specialty menus, and high-profile clientele made them a strong O-1B candidate.
Work History and Culinary Achievements
The chef had provided private dining services for executives, international families, and premium wellness clients.
They also received culinary awards, had been featured in lifestyle magazines, and developed signature tasting menus that distinguished them from typical chefs.
All of these accomplishments aligned with O-1B evidentiary requirements.
2. Immigration Attorney in New York — O-1B Visa Requirements Explained
The O-1B is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, and culinary arts falls within that definition.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate national or international acclaim and show they will continue working in their field in the United States.
Evidence Categories for Culinary O-1B Cases
Our immigration attorney in New York guided the chef through evidence categories such as:
• Proof of awards, culinary competition recognition, and industry distinctions
• Press, interviews, and media coverage related to their private dining work
• Letters from distinguished chefs, hospitality executives, and former high-profile clients
• Documentation of past private chef engagements and exclusive culinary services
• A detailed job offer from the Manhattan household confirming duties, compensation, and work scope
Each category was customized to match both the chef’s background and USCIS standards.
3. Immigration Attorney in New York — Strategic Support and Evidence Development
Our firm designed a structured plan to build a persuasive O-1B package.
We organized the chef’s achievements into a legal narrative supported by strong documentation and expert testimonials.
Evidence Collection and Portfolio Preparation
We helped the chef compile:
• A comprehensive culinary portfolio with signature dishes, event menus, and client reviews
• A list of private dining events hosted for executives, ambassadors, and luxury retreats
• Proof of media features, food-related interviews, and magazine coverage
• Documentation of past exclusive contracts and long-term private client engagements
Each document was reviewed to ensure it clearly reflected extraordinary culinary ability.
Expert Letters and Legal Arguments
Our immigration attorney in New York drafted detailed recommendation letters from industry experts and prepared legal arguments demonstrating:
• The chef’s distinction in the culinary arts
• How their private-dining expertise exceeded that of ordinary chefs
• Why the Manhattan household specifically sought their services
• How their specialized skillset aligned with O-1B regulations
4. Immigration Attorney in New York — O-1B Visa Approval Result
The petition was submitted with a complete portfolio, detailed expert letters, and a strong legal brief.
USCIS approved the O-1B visa without issuing a Request for Evidence (RFE).
The private chef successfully relocated to Manhattan and began working full-time for the household that sponsored them.
When to Contact an Immigration Attorney
Private chefs, artists, performers, and culinary professionals often underestimate how their careers may meet O-1 standards.
Our immigration attorney in New York helps applicants identify qualifying achievements, collect evidence, and prepare a strong petition.
If you are seeking to work in the U.S. as a chef or culinary artist, professional legal support can dramatically improve your chances of success.
21 Nov, 2025
