1. What is the criteria for obtaining a P visa?

The criteria for obtaining a P visa are: the applicant must be coming to the U.S. to participate in a specific athletic or entertainment event (or series of events) as an athlete, artist or entertainer, with significant public recognition or international recognition in their field; the event must be commercially sponsored; and the event must have a distinguished reputation. Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate that they possess a high level of skill and experience performing in the event, and that they are entering the United States to continue work in that field.

2. What type of documents are required for a P visa application?

In general, a P visa application requires the applicant to submit:

1. A completed and signed Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker;
2. Evidence of the applicant’s extraordinary ability in the specific field, including copies of any awards won or published materials about the applicant;
3. A copy of the applicant’s valid passport;
4. A copy of any contracts or other documentation demonstrating the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary;
5. Evidence of arrangements for payment of wages and other benefits provided to the applicant;
6. If applicable, evidence of labor certification from the Department of Labor;
7. Any other documents required by the Department of Homeland Security or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and
8. The applicable filing fee.

3. How long does it take to process a P visa application?

The processing time for a P visa application can vary depending on the individual case. Generally, USCIS will review and process the application within 14 to 90 days of receipt.

4. Can I extend my P visa?

Yes, a P visa may be extended or renewed upon request and approval from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. In order to extend or renew a P visa, you must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, along with supporting documents such as evidence of ongoing work and other proof of eligibility.

5. Is there an annual quota for P visas?

Yes, there is an annual quota for P visas. The number of P visas issued each year is determined by the US Department of Homeland Security and is subject to change. The current quota for P visas is 66,000.

6. Are there any restrictions on where I can perform work while in the United States on a P visa?

Yes. You are generally not allowed to perform any services outside of the event or activity for which you have been approved for a P visa. Additionally, you must also not provide services in any place where a strike, lockout, or other labor dispute is occurring.

7. What is the difference between a P-1A and a P-1B visa?

A P-1A visa is a type of visa that is designed for individual athletes, or for groups of athletes engaged in an internationally-recognized level of performance. The P-1B visa is similar to the P-1A, but it is designed for teams and individual entertainers who are part of an internationally-recognized entertainment group. It allows those entertainers and teams to perform in the U.S. for up to one year. The P-1B visa also includes certain unique benefits, such as the ability to transport essential personnel and equipment into the U.S. without obtaining additional visas.

8. What are the requirements for obtaining a P-2 visa?

The P-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa type specifically designed for those entering the United States to perform as an artist or entertainer, individually or as part of a group, under a reciprocal exchange program between an organization in the United States and an organization in another country.

In order to obtain a P-2 visa, applicants must provide evidence that:

1. They are coming to the U.S. to perform under a reciprocal exchange program between an organization in the U.S. and an organization in another country;

2. The performance, event, or competition in which they will be participating is culturally unique;

3. Their skills and abilities are essential to the success of the program;

4. They will receive compensation from the foreign employer for their services;

5. The duration of their stay is limited to the length of the program and any necessary travel;

6. They have no intention of staying permanently in the United States.

9. What is the difference between a P-3 visa and an O-1 visa?

A P-3 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for individuals or groups who are coming to the United States to demonstrate traditional culture, such as music, dance, art, or folklore. This type of visa is usually granted to performers in a culturally unique program. An O-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. This type of visa is usually granted to people who have demonstrated a sustained level of achievement in their respective fields.

10. How long can I stay in the US with a P visa?

Generally, you can stay in the US for up to one year with a P visa. Extensions may be granted up to a maximum stay of five years. However, the actual length of stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officials at the port of entry.

11. Are there any requirements to obtain an additional work permit or green card after entering the US on a P visa?

Yes, an additional work permit or green card may be obtained after entering the US on a P visa. However, the applicant must meet certain eligibility requirements for the type of work permit or green card that they are seeking. Additionally, the applicant may need to submit additional documents and/or undergo a background check before the application can be approved.

12. Are there any fees associated with applying for or obtaining a P visa?

Yes, there are certain fees associated with applying for and obtaining a P visa. The filing fee for a P visa is $190. The biometrics fee is $85, and the fraud prevention and detection fee is $500. Depending on the circumstances, other fees may apply. For instance, if you are from a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program, you may need to pay a fee for the waiver.

13. What restrictions are placed on spouses and dependents accompanying an artist or entertainer to the US on a P visa?

Spouses and dependents accompanying an artist or entertainer to the US on a P visa are issued a P-4 visa, which allows them to enter the US but not to work. They are allowed to attend school and engage in activities associated with the artist or entertainer’s performance in the US, but they cannot accept employment.

14. How can I find out if I qualify for a waiver of certain P visa requirements?

The US Department of State provides information about certain P visa waiver requirements on their website. Additionally, you may also contact the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country for more information.

15. Can I change employers while in the US on a P visa?

Yes, you can change employers while in the US on a P visa as long as the new employer is willing to file an I-129 petition with the USCIS. However, you must obtain approval from the USCIS before you can begin working for the new employer.

16. Are there any limitations regarding my ability to travel outside the US while in possession of a valid P visa?

Yes, P visa holders may encounter difficulties attempting to travel to countries other than the US. Each country has their own immigration laws and regulations regarding foreign nationals entering the country. P visa holders should research the policies and regulations of any country before attempting to enter. In addition, it is important to note that some countries may require a valid visa from a US visa holder in order for them to be granted entry into the country.

17. Can I enter the US multiple times under the same valid P visa?

Yes, you can enter the US multiple times under the same valid P visa as long as you are engaging in activities related to your purpose of travel.

18. Can I apply for permanent residency while in the US on a P visa?

Yes, you can. The P visa does not automatically confer permanent residency status, but it can be used as a stepping stone to that status. As such, you should consult with an immigration attorney to determine what the best course of action is for your particular situation.

19. Are there any special considerations when traveling internationally with a valid P visa?

Yes, when traveling internationally with a valid P visa, travelers should be aware of the following special considerations:

– Ensure that the visa is valid for the entire duration of the trip and any extensions to the trip.
– Obtain a visa for any country that requires one.
– Contact the U.S. Embassy in the country of destination to make sure that the P visa will be accepted.
– Make sure that there are no restrictions on travel due to restrictions imposed by the issuing country.
– Have the necessary funds and documentation to prove that one can support themselves while abroad.
– Carefully read all documents related to the P visa before traveling.
– Adhere to all local laws and regulations in the destination country.

20. What are the consequences for failing to comply with all of the applicable requirements for maintaining legal status while in the US on a P visa?

The consequences for failing to comply with all of the applicable requirements for maintaining legal status while in the US on a P visa can include deportation, an inability to renew visas, and a permanent bar to re-entering the United States. Additionally, depending on the circumstances of the violation, a person may be subject to criminal charges.