P-1: Athletes, Artists, and Entertainers

The P categories, P-1, P-2 and P-3, are non immigrant visa options for foreign nationals who will be coming to the US to perform in athletics or entertainment.

Athletes

For athletic teams to petition for foreign athletes, teams must have achieved international recognition. Athletes coming individually to the US must show international recognition. “International recognition" definition includes "high level of achievement in a field…substantially above that ordinarily encountered, [and] such achievement is …well-known in more than 1 country."

Entertainers

To obtain a P-1 visa, an entertainer must be part of an entertainment group. In most circumstances, individuals cannot obtain a P-1. The group must be internationally recognized, and have a sustained period of achievement.

Individual members must have been members of the group for at least 1 year, with the group together for this 1 year and 3/4ths of the group together for the 1 year as well.

P-1 petitions may be filed by a US or foreign employers, or by a US agent. The petition must include the following:

- any written contract between alien and petitioner, or, if no written contract, a thorough description of
- their oral agreement;
- an explanation of the event and an itinerary;
- and a consultation from a labor organization.

Obtaining a P visa can take months; however, premium processing is available.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 are permitted to accompany you to the U.S. under P-4 status. P-4 visa holders are not allowed to work, but may attend school.