The P1 Visa for Foreign Athletes

The P1 Visa for Foreign Athletes

Foreign athletes coming to the U.S. to compete as an individual or as part of a team are typically granted entry via the P1 visa. In addition, support personnel such as coaches or trainers may also accompany the athlete(s) courtesy of a P-1 visa.

While the typical processing time for P1 visas may be several months, the process can be expedited through premium processing. The time an athlete may spend in the U.S. on a P1 visa is typically allocated according to an event schedule or contract, so stays can vary from one day to up to 5 years or up to 10 years with an extension.

Qualifications for P-1 Visa

To qualify for a P-1 visa, an athlete or team must be internationally recognized in the sport. The USCIS defines “international recognition” as “have a high level of achievement in a field evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition above that ordinarily encountered, to the extent that such achievement is renowned, leading, or well-known in more than one country.”

Each member of a visiting international team will be provided with a P1 visa based on the international recognition of the team. An individual team member cannot compete separately from his or her team.

P1 visa holders may also compete for payment and prize money, undergo training or study and even work in the U.S. However, a P1 visa holder’s employer must file a separate petition.

Filing the P-1 Visa Petition

The following documents need to be included in a P1 visa petition filing:

• Copy of contract between athlete and petitioner. If there is no contract, submission of the terms of the engagement or competition and schedule will be necessary.
• Written consultation form from appropriate labor organization.
• Schedule of events or activities with start and end dates.
• Description of the event or activity in which the athlete will participate.
• Any two of the following as evidence:
  • Proof of prior participation with a major U.S. sports league
  • Proof of participation on a national team in international competition
  • Proof of prior participation with a U.S. college or university in intercollegiate competition
  • Written statement from a recognized expert or qualified sports media member as to how the athlete or team is internationally recognized
  • If the sport utilizes an international ranking system, proof that the athlete or team is highly ranked
  • Proof that an athlete or team has received a significant honor or award in the sport

For more information about our P-1 visa program or to get started, call (305)921-0440 or email us at info@jflawfirm.com.

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