P-1 Visa Status

The P Visa allows foreigners who are coming to the U.S. temporarily to perform at a specific athletic competition as an athlete, individually or as part of a group or team. The P visa also applies to those coming to the U.S. temporarily to perform as a member of an entertainment group that has been recognized internationally. There are a number of cultural exchange programs that allow artists or entertainers to perform individually or as part of a group. Support staff and family members may also accompany these individuals.

P1-A: Internationally recognized athletes coming to the U.S. temporarily to perform at a specific competition individually or as part of a group or team, at an internationally recognized level.

P1-B: A member of an internationally recognized entertainment group coming to the United States to perform as a member of an entertainment group that has been recognized internationally as outstanding for a sustained or substantial period of time.

P-2: Individual performer or part of a group entering to perform under a reciprocal exchange program. You must be an artist entering the U.S. though a government recognized reciprocal exchange program. You must also possess skills comparable to the those U.S. artists and entertainers taking part in the program outside of the U.S.

P-3: Artist or entertainer coming to be part of a culturally unique program. You must be coming to the U.S. either individually or as a group for the purpose of developing, interpreting, representing, coaching, or teaching a unique performance or presentation. You must also be coming to the U.S. to participate in a cultural event which will further the understanding or development of your art form.