An AI scientist at Meta, who was based in San Francisco, has now decided to relocate to London after being denied re-entry in the US following his trip to visit family in China.
The researcher, identified as Zifan Wang, had been residing and working in the US on the O-1 visa, often dubbed as the ‘genius visa’.
Taking to X, he wrote, “When I visited my family and friends in China last month, my O1 visa stamp for re-entrance was denied so it is not possible for me to return to the US immediately after my trip, which was unexpected and crazy. I have been studying and working in the US [probably] for 7 years,” he said.
What is the genius visa?
The O-1 visa is a US non-immigrant work visa for individuals who have extraordinary ability in fields like science, business, education, arts, or athletics, or a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture/television industry.
It allows a foreign national to work temporarily in the US in their area of expertise with an American employer or agent filing the petition on their behalf, and is initially granted for up to three years with the possibility of unlimited one-year extensions.
Who are some other notable figures who have been on O-1 visas?
Several high-profile figures have reportedly worked in the United States on O-1 “extraordinary ability” visas, particularly early in their careers before obtaining permanent residency. These include entertainers such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Adele, Justin Bieber, and Drake. Journalist Jose Antonio Vargas is also part of the list. Vargas had publicly disclosed receiving an O-1 visa due to his Pulitzer Prize–winning work.
‘You deserve to be happy in a country that treats you right’
Several X users shared their comments in support of Wang, sharing tips and recommendations about London with him.
“I wish you luck and you deserve to be happy in a country that treats you right,” a user wrote, with another adding “It’s [US’] loss.
I am deeply sad for my country, but happy that you’re refusing to put up with our government’s sick xenophobia.”