Understanding the P-1 Visa
Are you looking for a better job? Maybe you want to live in the USA for a short time. Or maybe you just want to explore the world! If yes, then it is important to know about the P-1 visa. The P-1 visa is a US work permit which will allow you to get a job in any branch of your field of occupation. It will also provide you with an opportunity to stay and live in America for long periods at a stretch. This is something your employer would love and so might you too!
What is a P-1 Visa?
A P-1 visa is a temporary employment visa that allows you to live and work in the United States so long as you have a job offer from an American employer. It is also known as a “performer” or “athlete” visa. This type of visa is mainly granted to people involved in the arts, sciences and any other profession that requires international recognition.
If unique circumstances make it impossible for the group to substantiate its international recognition and reputation, the USCIS may waive the international recognition criteria for groups with massive national reputation. For example, the group may have limited access to news media or have challenges due to its geographic position.
Unlike other visa categories, this visa does not have an annual limit. Additionally, individuals who have been awarded this type of work permit are eligible for extensions or changes when needed.
Who qualifies for a P-1 Visa?
There are certain requirements that a person must fulfill to be eligible for this visa. This includes the following:
• You must be the very best in your profession.
• Your services should be sought after by an American company or organization.
• You must have been recognized by an organization or your work is on a worldwide level.
• You need to possess enough funds to cover your expenses for travel, medical checkup, living and working in America for at least one year without any help from others.
Athlete: An individual or team must have an internationally recognized reputation in the sport to qualify as a P-1 athlete. Applicants must show a contract with a major United States sports league, team, or international athletic event.
Entertainers: Individual entertainers are not eligible for P-1 visas; only members of internationally recognized groups are eligible. The group must have been performing regularly for at least one year, and at least 75 percent of its members must have performed with the group for at least one year.
Circus: The particular circus must be nationally recognized and have an outstanding reputation. If so, for performers and essential personnel in the circus, there is no requirement of being a part of the organization for at least one year to get a P-1 visa.
The Benefits of a P-1 Visa
P-1 visas are often used by internationally recognized athletes and entertainers who have been invited to come and perform in the United States by an American employer or organization. This US work permit can be used for up to 5 years. It will provide you with an opportunity to live and work in America for long periods of time at a stretch.
You can also use a P-1 visa as a stepping stone to live and work in the USA permanently. In this status, you may apply for a green card, and then ultimately apply for US citizenship.
As you may understand, obtaining a P-1 Visa is a relatively straightforward but detailed process. With an experienced immigration expert by your side, you can be assured that you will not experience common pitfalls that others might. We only request that you submit the proper information and documents to us, and we’ll do the rest. You’ll be on your way to living in the USA with a P-1 Visa.
