P Visa

 

Overview

This category is for persons wanting to come to the United States for the purpose of performing in an athletic or entertainment event. This category includes internationally recognized athletes and entertainers (P1), athletes and entertainers pursuant the reciprocal exchange programs (P2); and culturally unique artists and entertainers (P3).

 

Requirements

P1 Athletes must show that they are internationally known either as an individual or as part of a athletic team. The athlete should provide the following:

• Contract with the United States sports league or team, if available;

And at least two of the following;

• Proof of having participated previously in a major United States sports league;
• Proof of having participated in an international competition;
• Proof of having participated for a U.S. college or university in intercollegiate competition;
• Written statement from an official of the sport indicating that the individual is recognized within the sport;
• Proof that the individual is ranked within the sport;
• Award or honor in the sport.

Entertainers must show that they are part of an entertainment group that is internationally recognized. Seventy five percent (75%) of the group’s members must have been with the group for at least one year. The following must be provided:

• Proof that the group has been established, and performing for at least one year;
• The names of each member and the date they joined the group;

One of the following must also be provided:

• Proof that the group has been internationally recognized for a considerable length of time;
• Proof that the group has performed, and will perform, as a leading group in reputable productions or events;
• Proof that the group has received international recognition;
• Proof that the group has critically acclaimed successes such as articles in trade magazines or newspapers, ratings, box office receipts, and record or video sales;
• Proof that the group has received recognition for their achievements from industry organizations, experts, or critics;
• Proof that the group has obtained a comparably high salary or will obtain a high salary for its services.

P2

The P-2 Category does not require the individual or group to have achieved a particular level in the industry. To qualify, the alien must be either an artist or an entertainer, comparable to those in the United States, who is participating in a reciprocal exchange program. No minimum level of expertise is required.

 

The individuals involved in the program must show that they are of the same caliber, that the length of employment is the same, and the number of individuals participating is the same on both sides of the exchange. Significant supporting documentation is normally required.

 

P3

This category does not require the artist or entertainer to show that they are internationally recognized. The artists or entertainer must be coming to the United States for the purpose of teaching others and to further develop the art form. Teachers and coaches may also qualify to enter the United States under this category. The applicant will be required to confirm the originality and cultural uniqueness of the art form.

 

Dual Intent

Dual intent is recognized as long as the alien maintains a foreign residence throughout the application for resident alien status.