P-Visas: Athletes & Entertainers

General Information

P visas are issued to persons who perform as an athlete, individually or as part of a group or team that is internationally recognized or persons who are an integral or essential part of an entertainment group recognized as outstanding for a sustained and substantial period of time. Other classifications under the P visa cover individuals who perform, teach, or coach under culturally unique programs. The P visa category consists of four classifications:

P-1 (Athletes and group entertainers)
P-2 (Reciprocal Exchange Program)
P-3 (Culturally Unique Program)
P-4(spouses and children).

Eligibility Requirements

The P visa allows for individuals that are part of a team or entertainment group to come to the United States and perform temporarily. P-1 athletes may be admitted for up to five years with one extension up to five years. P-2 / P-3 and essential support personnel are granted admission for time necessary to complete one event up to one year and extensions for similar periods.