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P-1 Visa
What is P-1 Visa?
The P-1 visa represents a specific category within the U.S. non-immigrant visa system, designed to facilitate the temporary entry of internationally recognized athletes, athletic teams, and entertainment groups into the United States.
P-1 visa is intended for temporary stays and requires the beneficiary to engage in specific competitions, events, performances, or tours.
The main subcategories are:
- P-1A (athletes/teams)
-
P-1B (entertainment groups).
Visas are also available for essential support personnel (P-1S) and dependent family members (P-4: spouses and unmarried children under 21).
P-1 Visa Categories: P-1A vs. P-1B
The P-1 classification has two main streams:
P-1A Visa for Athletes and Athletic Teams
This visa is for internationally recognized individual athletes or teams coming for specific, distinguished athletic competitions. Eligibility includes:
- Individual athletes recognized internationally (renowned in more than one country).
- Athletic teams recognized internationally as a unit.
- Professional athletes employed by major U.S. sports leagues or affiliates.
- Certain amateur athletes/coaches in U.S. teams part of qualified foreign leagues.
- Theatrical ice skaters performing in specific productions/tours.
P-1B Visa for Entertainment Groups
This visa is for members of an entertainment group (minimum two members ) established for at least one year and recognized internationally as outstanding for a sustained period. Key rules:
- 75% / One-Year Relationship Rule: At least 75% of members must have a sustained relationship (minimum one year) with the group.
- Waivers: The 75%/one-year rule and international recognition are waived for qualifying circus personnel. International recognition can be waived for nationally recognized groups in special circumstances. The one-year rule can be waived for essential replacements due to exigent circumstances.
- Group Recognition: Eligibility is based on the group’s reputation, not individual members’ achievements.
P-1 Visa Requirements
Who Can File the Petition (The Sponsor)?
A U.S. entity must file Form I-129. Eligible petitioners:
- U.S. Employer
- U.S. Sponsoring Organization
- U.S. Agent (for multiple employers, self-employed, or foreign employers)
- Foreign Employer (must use a U.S. agent)
Agent petitions require proof of authority and a detailed itinerary.
P-1A Evidence Checklist (Athletes/Teams)
- A contract with a major U.S. league/team or one commensurate with international recognition.
- Documentation satisfying at least two of the following :
- Prior significant participation in a major U.S. league season.
- Participation in international competition with a national team.
- Prior significant participation in U.S. intercollegiate competition.
- Written statement from a sport governing body official on international recognition.
- Written statement from sports media/expert on international recognition.
- International ranking (if applicable).
- Significant honor or award in the sport.
P-1B Evidence Checklist (Entertainment Groups):
- Evidence of the group’s nomination for/receipt of significant international awards. OR
- Documentation satisfying at least three of the following :
- Past/future starring/leading role in distinguished productions/events.
- International recognition/acclaim via reviews/published material.
- Past/future leading/starring role for distinguished organizations.
- Record of major commercial or critically acclaimed successes.
- Significant recognition from organizations, critics, experts, etc.
- Commanding/will command high salary/remuneration compared to peers.
Bringing Your Team: Essential Support Personnel (P-1S Visa)
The P-1S visa is for highly skilled support staff integral to the P-1 principal’s performance, whose services cannot be readily performed by a U.S. worker. Examples include coaches, trainers, technicians, etc.
Accompanying Family Members (P-4 Visa)
The P-4 visa allows the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of P-1 visa holders to accompany them.
P-1 Visa Application Process
Step 1: Petitioner Files Form I-129
The U.S. petitioner files Form I-129 with the P Supplement.
Step 2: Obtain the Mandatory Labor Consultation
A written advisory opinion from a relevant U.S. peer group or labor organization is required. It evaluates qualifications, recognition, and the nature of the work.
Step 3: Compile Supporting Documentation
- Labor consultation.
- Evidence meeting P-1A/P-1B criteria (checklists above).
- Contracts or summary of oral agreements.
- Detailed itinerary.
- Explanation of events/activities.
- Agent authorization (if applicable).
- P-1B: Proof of 1-year establishment, member list/dates.
Step 4: USCIS Adjudication, Fees, and Timelines
The petitioner must submit the correct filing fee along with the Form I-129 package. Fees are subject to change, and petitioners should always verify the current amounts on the official USCIS website
Step 5: Consular Processing (for Beneficiaries Abroad)
USCIS approval is not a visa. Beneficiaries abroad must apply at a U.S. embassy/consulate. This involves Form DS-160, fee payment, interview, and presenting documents (passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, I-797). Must demonstrate non-immigrant intent.
Questions? You’re covered.
P-1 is for internationally recognized athletes (P-1A) and entertainment groups (P-1B). O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary ability/achievement (a higher standard).
No. A U.S. employer, sponsor, or agent must petition.
At least 75% of group members need a sustained relationship (min. 1 year) with the group. Waivers exist (circus, exigent circumstances).
No. P-4 spouses/children cannot work. They can study.
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