What is a P-1 visa?

The P-1 visa is a U.S. work visa for internationally recognized athletes, teams, and entertainment groups coming to the United States to perform or compete. P-1A visas are for athletes, and P-1B visas are for entertainment groups.

It’s one of the few visa types designed specifically for group-based talent, like professional sports teams, touring bands, and dance companies, as well as essential support staff who travel with them. The P-1 also supports individual athletes who aren’t part of a team, as long as they are internationally recognized.

In order to apply for a P-1 visa, you need a U.S. employer, agent, or sponsor to petition for you. You can’t apply on your own, and a petition must be filed before you can get the visa stamp at a consulate.

P visas vs. O visas

P-1 visas and O-1 visas are both nonimmigrant visas for people with exceptional skills. The difference is that P-1 visas are limited to athletes and entertainers who are coming to the U.S. for a specific performance or competition. Your visa is tied to a specific event, tour, or team.

O visas, on the other hand, are for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field and don’t require participation in a specific event. O visas tend to focus more on your personal achievements rather than participation in a particular event.

Who qualifies for a P-1 visa?

P-1 visas are for athletes, athletic teams, and entertainment groups who are internationally recognized. In other words, you must be coming to the U.S. to perform or compete at a high level.

The requirements vary depending on whether you’re applying as an athlete (P-1A) or an entertainment group (P-1B).

P-1A visa

The P-1A is for internationally recognized athletes, including individual athletes and athletic teams. You must come to the U.S. to participate in a specific athletic competition, season, or event.

P-1B visa

The P-1B is for members of internationally recognized entertainment groups coming to the U.S. to perform. The group must be recognized as outstanding for a sustained period of time, and most members must have been part of the group for at least one year.

What are the advantages and limitations of a P-1 visa?

P-1 visas can be a strong option for athletes and entertainers who qualify because they allow you to work in the U.S. for the duration of a specific event or tour, with extensions available.

However, the visa is employer- and event-specific. You must work only for the sponsoring employer and only in connection with the approved events or itinerary.

What are the eligibility criteria for a P-1 visa?

Eligibility depends on whether you’re applying for a P-1A or P-1B visa, and whether you’re an athlete, a team member, or a member of an entertainment group.

P-1A visa criteria – internationally recognized athletes

To qualify for a P-1A, you must demonstrate international recognition in your sport and be coming to the U.S. to participate in a specific competition, season, or event.

• Evidence of participation in a major U.S. sports league
• Evidence of participation in international competition with a national team
• Evidence of participation in a prominent U.S. college or intercollegiate competition
• Written statement from a recognized expert in your sport
• Evidence of ranking or major awards
• Evidence of significant media coverage or recognition

P-1B visa criteria – internationally recognized entertainers

To qualify for a P-1B, the entertainment group must be internationally recognized as outstanding in the discipline for a sustained period of time. Typically, at least 75% of the group’s members must have been with the group for at least one year.

• Evidence the group has performed as a starring or leading group in productions with distinguished reputations
• Evidence of major commercial or critically acclaimed success
• Evidence of significant recognition from critics, organizations, or government agencies
• Evidence the group commands a high salary or significant remuneration compared to others in the field

P1-B visa criteria – special provisions for certain other entertainers

Some entertainment categories may have additional rules or flexibility depending on the type of performance and the nature of the group, including certain circus-related performers or acts where the one-year membership requirement may not apply in the same way.

What is the application process for a P-1 visa?

The P-1 process generally begins with a U.S. sponsor filing a petition with USCIS. After approval, you apply for the visa stamp at a U.S. consulate (unless you’re changing status in the U.S.).

1. Secure a U.S. sponsor or petitioner

You must have a U.S. employer, agent, or sponsor file the petition. The sponsor is responsible for submitting the paperwork and supporting evidence.

2. Gather supporting documents

You’ll need evidence showing you (or your group/team) meet the international recognition standards, and documentation of the events, itinerary, contracts, and related materials.

3. File Form I-129 with USCIS

Your sponsor files Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with USCIS. USCIS reviews the petition and supporting evidence, and may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if documentation is missing or unclear.

4. Wait for a decision and get your visa stamped

If USCIS approves the petition and you are outside the U.S., you apply for a P-1 visa stamp at a U.S. consulate and attend an interview. If you are inside the U.S., you may be able to change status depending on your situation.

How long does a P-1 visa take?

Processing time depends on USCIS workload and whether you use premium processing. Standard processing can take a few months. Premium processing shortens the USCIS decision timeline to about 15 days (but doesn’t control consular appointment availability).

How much does a P-1 visa cost?

Costs can include USCIS filing fees for Form I-129, optional premium processing fees, and consular visa fees. Additional costs may include legal fees, translation, and gathering evidence.

How long can I stay in the US with a P-1 visa?

P-1 status is generally granted for the duration of the approved event, tour, or competition. The maximum initial period and extension rules depend on whether you are in P-1A or P-1B and the nature of the engagements.

Can I extend my stay with a P-1 visa?

Yes. Extensions are available if you continue to meet eligibility requirements and the sponsor files an extension request with updated evidence and itinerary as needed.

Can I switch from a P visa to a Green Card?

Some P visa holders may pursue permanent residence through employment- or family-based pathways, depending on eligibility. Strategy varies by occupation, achievements, and long-term goals.

Can my family come with me on a P-1 visa?

Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for P-4 status. P-4 dependents can study in the U.S., but they generally cannot work.

Can I travel internationally on a P-1 visa?

P-1 visa holders can generally travel in and out of the U.S. while their status is valid and they have a valid visa stamp (if required for re-entry), but travel logistics depend on your specific case and documentation.

Do I need a P-1 visa lawyer?

A lawyer isn’t required, but P-1 petitions are documentation-heavy and often benefit from careful preparation. Strong evidence and clear explanations are important, especially if USCIS issues an RFE.