How to Apply for a P-1 Visa

The United States has a rich history of hosting prestigious sporting events, including multiple editions of the Summer and Winter Olympics. For those looking to participate in such events, the P-1 visa offers an enticing opportunity. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a P-1 visa in 2023, encompassing not only athletes but also sports coaches and specialized staff.

Understanding the P-1 Visa

While often referred to as the “athletes’ visa,” the P-1 visa category comprises two distinct types: the P-1A visa and the P-1B visa. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) defines the P-1A visa as applicable to individuals temporarily entering the country to participate in specific athletic competitions. This category encompasses both individual athletes and groups or teams with internationally recognized performance levels. Coaches and support staff of these athletes can also apply for the P-1 visa. Additionally, professional athletes and coaches within U.S.-based sports franchises can fall under the P-1A category.

Conversely, the P-1B visa is designed for individuals coming to the United States temporarily to perform as members of an entertainment group. This category comes with specific requirements, including:

1. The entertainment group must have been established at least one year before the application.
2. The group must have gained international recognition for a sustained and substantial period.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a P-1 Visa

Both P-1A and P-1B visas require a substantial amount of documentation to determine eligibility.

P-1A Category – Required Documentation

In the P-1A category, athletes, coaches, and staff members must provide a copy of their contract with a U.S.-based team or sports league. Additionally, applicants must furnish at least two of the following documents:

1. Evidence of participation in a major U.S. sports event.
2. Proof of high ranking in individual performance or team performance (crucial for sports with international ranking systems).
3. Evidence of international-level performance as part of a national team.
4. Documentation of awards or significant honors received in the sport.
5. Proof of past participation in competitions for a U.S. college or university.
6. A written statement from an expert attesting to international recognition of the applicant and their team.

P-1B Category – Required Documentation

Applicants in the P-1B category must provide different documentation to establish their eligibility. This typically includes a statement listing all group or team members and their employment dates. Further requirements involve:

1. Proof of the group’s establishment and operation for at least one year before the application.
2. Evidence of nominations or prizes won by the group in their discipline during the relevant period.
3. Submission of at least three of the following documents:

• Proof of the group’s continued activity (e.g., mentions in trade journals, testimonials, news articles).
• Evidence of higher payment for the group’s services compared to others in the same field.
• Demonstrated international recognition of the group in newspapers, magazines, and other publications.
• Proof of the group’s success in prior events, including receipts, video sales, and related records.
• Evidence of special achievements or recognition within the group, acknowledged by experts, critics, government agencies, and organizations.

P-1 Visa Application – Processing Time and Fees

To begin the P-1 visa application process, a U.S. employer or sponsor must submit a Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) to the USCIS on behalf of the athlete, coach, or staff member. The standard application fee for the P-1 category is approximately $190, with additional fees dependent on the applicant’s country’s relationship with the United States. Without opting for premium processing, the application typically takes between 3 to 6 months for approval.

Seek Professional Assistance for Your P-1 Visa Application

At Jurado & Associates, P.A., we are dedicated to guiding you through the entire process of obtaining your P-1 visa. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact us today at (305) 921-0976, email us at Romy@juradolawfirm.com, or WhatsApp at +1 (305) 921-0976 to schedule a consultation.

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