age is just a number?

Hey readers!

Aizada here from Alma.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has been front and center promoting the new “gold card” visa. He claims that the website for registrations for the gold card is to go live this week.

He argues that if 200,000 people buy in, the program could raise as much as a trillion dollars, money he says could help pay down the US federal debt.

However, the reality is that Congress hasn’t approved this visa yet.

While this plan could open new doors for wealthy immigrants someday, most entrepreneurs right now have to stick to the existing options.

The O-1A and EB-1A visas remain the main pathways for people with extraordinary ability or achievement. These visas are tried and tested, and they don’t require a $5 million investment.

Which brings us to today’s topic: the truth about age and O-1A visas.

"Can I qualify for an O-1A visa without decades of experience?"

We’ve noticed a surge in younger founders asking this same question: the answer? YES.

According to the Policy Manual (Volume 2, Part M, Chapter 4), an O-1A requires “extraordinary ability” demonstrated by “sustained national or international acclaim.”

So clearly, there is NO minimum age requirement for an O-1A visa.

Does that mean anyone would get it?

Well, it depends. Let’s look at the real story:

Now, let’s look at the criteria that require a bit more work and evidence.

These are best suited for founders who have already made some measurable strides in their careers.

For the Daredevils

Some criteria have historically been more difficult to satisfy, but can make or break a case if successful.

Nationally or Internationally Recognized Prizes

Securing venture capital funding can validate remarkable accomplishments, especially when the funding is granted based on achievements.

Startup founders have benefited from awards such as Stevie Awards, Forbes 30 Under 30, TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield, EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Startup of the Year, CNews Awards, and, of course, the Nobel Prize.

The Documentation

For each of these criteria, USCIS requires specific evidence to back up your claims.

Here’s what we’ve seen work:

• Clarity: Detailed documentation showing impact and industry recognition.

• Consistency: Evidence that tells a cohesive story of your journey as a founder.

• Proof of Impact: Measurable impact in your field — user growth, recognition, or salary data.

As a young founder, there are many ways to demonstrate extraordinary ability.

Just focus on the right criteria, gather strong evidence, and be strategic in how you present it. With the right approach, we’ve seen founders secure O-1A visas and start building their future in the U.S.

You must have heard, ‘All fingers of a hand are not the same’.

Well, the same holds true for founders too.

1. Age is just a number. Don’t let the belief that O-1A visas are only for people with decades of experience hold you back. As long as you meet the criteria and present your achievements effectively, age doesn’t matter.

2. Focus on high-quality evidence. It’s not about the quantity of achievements, but the quality. If you’re a young founder, focus on demonstrating significant, measurable impact in your field—whether that’s through open-source contributions, media features, or industry recognition.

3. Don’t chase generic accolades. USCIS wants to see real evidence of your contributions. Anything that looks like “profile building” for the sake of a visa doesn’t help. Focus on what you’ve done and how it has made a tangible impact.

4. Consult with an expert. The O-1A visa process can be complex, especially for young founders. That's why we started Alma – to bring clarity and confidence to a process designed to be confusing.

Have questions about your specific case?

Hit reply or book a free consultation!

Until next time,
Aizada