The main differences between the J - 1, H - 1B and O - 1 are intent and purpose.  Please see the comparison chart for more information. 

The J - visa holder subject to the two-year home residency requirement may apply for the O - visa without first fulfilling or waiving that requirement. In these cases, the two-year home residency is merely postponed. However, the stringent criteria for this category limit its use.

The law establishes strict standards for the O  -1 visa. With regard to foreign nationals of extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business and athletics, regulations provide that only a person who is one of the small percentage who have risen to the very top of his or her field of endeavor qualifies as an individual of extraordinary ability.  To qualify for the O - 1 visa, a foreign national must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and recognition for achievements in the field of expertise by providing evidence of:

• Receipt of a major, internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize or
• At least three of the following forms of documentation:
• Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor;
• Membership in associations in the field which require outstanding achievements of their members;
• Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about the foreign national's work in the field;
• Participation on a panel or individually, as a judge of the work of others in the field;
• Authorship of scholarly articles in the field in professional journals or other major media;
• Employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation;
• High salary or other remuneration commanded by the foreign national for services;
• Other comparable evidence.

O- 3 visa holders: Dependents of O - 1 visa holders are not authorized to work in the U.S.