For athletes and performers aiming to participate in events, competitions, or performances in the United States, navigating the visa process can seem daunting. The P-1 visa category offers a streamlined path for internationally recognized individuals and their essential support personnel.

P-1A Visa for Athletes

The P-1A visa is designed for athletes who have achieved international recognition in their sport. It allows you to temporarily enter the U.S. to compete or participate in events at an elite level. To qualify for the P-1A visa:

• You must be entering the U.S. to participate in a specific event, competition, or performance.
• Your achievements must demonstrate a high level of skill and recognition on an international stage, distinguishing you from your peers.

This visa is suitable for individual athletes, members of a team, or those competing in leagues that are internationally renowned. Examples include Olympic athletes, professional sports players, and elite competitors from various sporting disciplines.

P-1B Visa for Entertainment Groups

The P-1B visa is designed for members of internationally recognized entertainment groups, such as musical bands, theater ensembles, or other performance groups. The group must have a distinguished reputation and a significant international presence. Key qualifications include:

• At least 75% of the group’s members must have been with the group for at least one year.
• The group must be recognized internationally for its talent, with a history of high achievement and recognition.

Support Personnel for P-1 Visa Holders

In addition to athletes and performers themselves, essential support staff, such as coaches, trainers, or production staff, may also be eligible to accompany P-1 visa holders under the P-1S visa. This visa applies to those who are integral to the performance or competition. To qualify, support personnel must:

• Be an essential part of the athlete’s or group’s successful performance, such as a coach, manager, or stage crew.
• Provide services that are critical to the success of the performance or competition and that cannot be easily replaced by U.S. workers.

Contact Us

At Araujo Law Group, we specialize in immigration services, including employment-based visas for athletes, performers, and their support teams. We can help you navigate the complex requirements of P-1 visas, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.

Call us at 917-767-4545 or visit www.araujolawgroup.com to schedule a consultation today and get the expert assistance you need.

Let us handle the details so you can focus on what you do best—performing and competing at the highest level!