P-1 Visas for Internationally Recognized Athletes

The P-1A visa is a U.S. temporary nonimmigrant visa for internationally recognized individual athletes or teams. These visas are for participation in specific competitions, events, or seasons in the U.S. at an elite level, with a validity period of up to five years for individual athletes.

To qualify for a P-1A visa, the athlete must have:

• International recognition, defined as a high level of achievement evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered, and are renowned, leading, or well‑known in more than one country.
• Evidence of international recognition may include:
  • Evidence of competition at an elite level
  • Evidence of a high ranking in the sport
  • Participation with a national team in international competition
  • Expert testimonials
  • Media coverage
  • Major prizes or awards

Other requirements include:

• A consultation from a qualifying U.S. organization
• A contract or invitation from a U.S. team, league, or event
• An itinerary of competitions or events
• Admissibility: All general U.S. admissibility requirements (no disqualifying criminal or immigration violations).P-1A visa holders cannot be employed outside the approved competitions/events or engage in any work not specified in the petition.

P-1A visa holders may bring essential support staff (coaches, trainers, grooms, etc.) with P-1S (support) visas. Both P-1 and P-1S (support) visa applicants may sponsor their spouse/children (under 21) on P-4 derivative family visas.

For assistance with a P-1 visa, contact our office for a consultation. We help athletes and teams document international recognition, prepare and file the visa petition and supporting evidence with USCIS, and guide clients through the USCIS application process, U.S. consular interview and U.S. entry process.