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P-1 Entertainment Groups Visa: Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some FAQ's containing essential information you need to know before applying for a P-1 visa:

• What is the P-1 (Performance) visa and who can apply for it?
• Who is the P-1 visa open to?
• What does it mean by 'internationally recognized' ?
• What other criteria must I fulfill to qualify for a P-visa?
• Are there any exceptions or other types of performances eligible for a P-1 visa ?
• What about my support, can they join me?
• Can my spouse and children accompany me to the United States?
• Can my spouse also work whilst in the United States?
• I am interested in applying, how do I proceed?

Q: What is the P-1 visa for?

A: The P1 visa is a non-immigrant visa which ebables non-US citizens or non-US permanent residents who are professional athletes, artists and entertainers to enter into the United States for a specific competition or performance.

P-1 Visa Online Assessment available

Q Who is the P-1 visa for performers open to?

The P-1 visa for entertainment groups is for those groups who are internationally recognized as outstanding.
Group means two or more persons established as one entity or unit to perform or to provide a service. The P-1 visa is not for individual performers.

Q: What does it mean by internationally recognised?

A: Internationally recognized means having a high level of achievement in a field evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered, to the extent that such achievement is renowned, leading, or well-known in more than one country.

What other criteria must I fulfill to qualify for a P-visa

You will neeed to have a legal contract with a United States employer or agent and must show evidence that:

• The group, as named on the petition, have been performing together for at least a year and that;
• At least 75% of the group members have been with the group for at least a year and provide a critical function for the group.
• The group has received significant internationally recognised awards or prizes, or at least been nominated for them.

In addition, three of the following must also be shown to be true for a successful petition:

• The group will be performing or starring in events with a distinguished reputation, as evidenced by critical reviews, publications, publicity releases, advertisements or endorsements.
• The group has received international recognition and acclaim for outstanding achievements in its field, again to be evidence by critical reviews in newspapers, trade publications or magazines.
• The group has had major commercial or critically acclaimed successes, such as box office receipts, ticket sales, video sales or evidenced by articles in newspapers or trade journals.
• The group is recognized for its achievements, by organizations, critics, government agencies, or other recognized experts, whose authority must be authenticated.
• The group commands or will command a high salary or other substantial remuneration for services comparable to other groups similarly situated.
  

Q:Are there any exceptions or other types of performances eligible for a P-1 visa?

P-1 Visa Assessment

Q: Can my spouse/ dependent children join me?

Yes they have their own visa class - the P-4. They may also enter the United States to join the P-1 visa holder at a later date and can travel freely in and out of the country.

Q: Can my spouse/ dependent children also work whilst in the United States?

No, P-4 holders are not allowed to seek employment. If they wish to work they must apply for a different visa class.

Q: I am interested in applying, how do I proceed?

A: If you an Athlete interested in competing in America on an P-1 visa  fill in an enquiry form to see if you qualify.