🎭 Overview of P Visa Classifications
The P visa category is for individuals coming temporarily to the United States to perform as athletes, artists, or entertainers, either individually or as part of a group, at a recognized level of achievement.
🥇 P-1 Visa
Applies to:
- Athletes (individuals or teams) competing at an internationally recognized level
- Entertainment groups recognized internationally for sustained excellence, where the beneficiary has been an essential part of the group for at least 1 year
- Essential support personnel who perform critical services in support of the athlete or entertainment group
🔁 P-2 Visa
Applies to:
- Artists or entertainers (solo or in a group) participating in a reciprocal exchange program between U.S. and foreign organizations
🌍 P-3 Visa
Applies to:
- Artists or entertainers (solo or in a group) entering the U.S. to perform, teach, or coach under a culturally unique program
Note: “Internationally recognized” means a high level of achievement and acclaim substantially above that ordinarily encountered, with recognition in multiple countries.
📄 Who Can File the Petition?
Each P visa requires a U.S.-based petitioner, such as:
- A U.S. employer
- A U.S. sponsoring organization
- A U.S. agent (for foreign employers or individuals)
Specific requirements:
- P-1 (Athletes/Entertainers): Must be filed by a U.S. employer, agent, or sponsor
- P-2 (Reciprocal Exchange): Must be filed by the labor organization that arranged the exchange, a sponsor, or a U.S. employer
- P-3 (Culturally Unique): Filed by a U.S. employer or sponsoring organization
📑 Evidence Required for P Visa Petitions
Each petition must include:
- A written contract or summary of an oral agreement
- Details of the event(s) including start/end dates and itinerary
- A written consultation from an appropriate labor organization, if one exists
- Specific proof of eligibility based on the visa classification:
⚽ P-1 Athletes
Must show international recognition through:
- A contract with a major U.S. sports league/team or equivalent
- At least two of the following:
- Participation in a major U.S. league or collegiate competition
- Competition with a national team
- Written statements from sport governing bodies or experts
- International ranking or recognition
- Receipt of significant awards or honors
🎤 P-1 Entertainment Groups
Must demonstrate:
- Group has been established and performing for at least 1 year
- Group members have worked regularly with the group during that period
- International recognition based on:
- Major performances, awards, or critical acclaim
- High-profile reviews or media coverage
- Recognition from reputable industry bodies
- Proven commercial success (sales, box office, etc.)
- High salary or remuneration comparable to others in the field
🛠️ P-1 Essential Support Personnel
Must include:
- A labor consultation from an organization with expertise in the area
- A statement of the worker’s prior essential role, skills, and experience
- A written contract or agreement outlining terms of service
⏳ Validity of Approved Petitions
- P-1 Individual Athlete: Valid up to 5 years
- P-1 Team / Entertainment Group: Valid up to 1 year
- P-2 / P-3 Artists/Entertainers: Valid up to 1 year
- P-1 / P-2 / P-3 Essential Support Personnel: Valid for the duration of the event, up to 1 year
Extensions may be available depending on the nature of the event or performance.
👨👩👧 P-4: Spouse and Dependents
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of P-1, P-2, or P-3 visa holders are eligible for P-4 status.
- P-4 dependents may study but cannot work
- Their stay is tied to the same length of time as the principal visa holder
Last Revision: March 2025.