P Visa (Athletes, Entertainers, Artists)

The P visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign athletes, entertainers, and artists to come to the United States temporarily to perform or participate in a specific event or competition. There are three categories of P visas: P-1, P-2, and P-3.

P-1 visas are for internationally recognized athletes or members of an internationally recognized entertainment group. To qualify for a P-1 visa, the applicant must demonstrate that they have achieved a high level of recognition in their field, either nationally or internationally.

P-2 visas are for artists or entertainers coming to the United States to perform under a reciprocal exchange program. To qualify for a P-2 visa, the applicant must demonstrate that they will be participating in a cultural exchange program that is mutually beneficial to both the United States and the applicant's home country.

P-3 visas are for artists or entertainers coming to the United States to perform, teach, or coach in a culturally unique program. To qualify for a P-3 visa, the applicant must demonstrate that their performance or presentation is culturally unique and that it will be culturally beneficial to the United States.

In order to apply for a P visa, the applicant must first have a job offer or a performance contract from a U.S. employer or sponsor. The employer or sponsor must file a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the applicant. Once the petition is approved, the applicant can then apply for a P visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

P visas are valid for the duration of the event or activity for which the applicant is coming to the United States. In some cases, the visa may be extended if the event or activity is extended. P visa holders are not permitted to work in the United States outside of the specific event or activity for which they were granted the visa. They are also not permitted to change their immigration status while in the United States.