P Visas

The P-1 visa classification is used to bring certain athletes, entertainers, and artists into the United States along with their essential support personnel. Individual visa applicants in the entertainment industry are not eligible for P-1 visas; however, individual athletes are eligible for P-1 visas. The P-1 visa is issued only for a specific event in the entertainment industry. However, individual athletes may be issued P-1 visas for five years and athletic teams may be issued P-1 visas for a period of six months.

P-2 visas permit the admission into the United States of an artist or entertainer, either an individual or group, that is involved in a reciprocal exchange program between foreign organizations and organizations in the United States which provide for the temporary exchange of artists or entertainers.

P-3 visas permit the admission into the United States of an artist or entertainer, either an individual or group, to perform, teach, or coach in a program that is culturally unique.

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal P visa holder to the United States for the duration of the principal P visa holder's stay require derivative P-4 visas. Spouses and/or children who do not intend to reside in the United States with the principal P visa holder, but who wish to visit the United States for vacations, may be eligible to apply for visitor visas, or, if qualified due to their country of citizenship, travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program.