P Visas – Artists, Athletes, and Entertainment Professionals

The P visa category is intended for internationally recognized artists, athletes, and entertainment professionals who wish to work temporarily in the United States. It is a nonimmigrant visa, but one that allows dual intent, meaning that the holder may later apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) without it being considered misrepresentation or fraud by U.S. authorities.

These visas enable individuals with extraordinary abilities to participate in athletic competitions, artistic performances, or cultural exchange programs, contributing to the sports, arts, and cultural industries in the U.S.

P-1 Visa: Athletes and Entertainment Groups

The P-1 visa is designated for professional athletes and performers traveling individually or as part of a team or group to the United States to participate in high-level competitions or entertainment performances.

It is divided into two main categories:

• P-1A: for professional athletes, whether competing individually or as members of internationally recognized teams. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional ability and prior participation in distinguished competitions.

• P-1B: for performers who are members of an entertainment group that has been established for at least one year and is internationally recognized for its excellence. At least 75% of the group members must have been part of the group for a minimum of one year.

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Essential support personnel for P-1 visa holders may qualify for a P-1S visa, which applies to key staff whose role is integral to the athlete’s or performer’s performance and cannot be easily filled by a U.S. worker. This includes coaches, trainers, scouts, producers, broadcasters, and interpreters.

P-2 Visa: Cultural Exchange Programs

The P-2 visa is for artists and entertainment professionals entering the U.S. to participate in reciprocal cultural exchange programs between a U.S. organization and an organization from another country.

Applicants must be sponsored by a U.S. employer or organization, which files Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with USCIS. Once the petition is approved, the beneficiary can proceed with the DS-160 application and consular interview.

The visa is issued for the duration necessary to complete the approved event or program, with the possibility of one-year extensions, if required.

P-3 Visa: Culturally Unique Programs

The P-3 visa applies to artists who wish to teach, perform, or train in the U.S. under programs that are culturally unique and promote understanding and appreciation of specific cultural traditions.

Applicants must provide evidence of their artistic qualifications and the cultural significance of the program, demonstrating that the performance or instruction represents a distinct cultural tradition rather than mere entertainment.

As with other P categories, a U.S. employer or sponsor must file Form I-129 with USCIS. Once approved, the artist completes Form DS-160 and attends the consular interview.

The initial period of stay is granted for the duration of the event or program, with possible extensions in one-year increments.

P-4 Visa: Dependents

The P-4 visa is granted to the dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old) of P-1, P-2, or P-3 visa holders, allowing them to accompany the principal applicant during their authorized stay in the United States.

Application Process Overview

Across all P visa categories, the general process follows these steps:

1. A U.S. employer or organization must sponsor the applicant by filing Form I-129 with supporting documentation to USCIS.

2. Once the petition is approved (as indicated by Form I-797, Notice of Action), the beneficiary completes the DS-160 form, gathers required evidence, and attends the visa interview at a U.S. consulate.

3. The visa is issued for a limited duration, based on the schedule of the event, with renewals available in one-year increments (or up to five years for individual P-1A athletes).