San Francisco P-1 Visa Attorney
Guiding Clients Through the Immigration Process
With a P-1 visa, foreign athletes can come to the United States to compete or perform in internationally recognized events. The P-1 visa allows short-term access to the U.S for sports teams, circus acts, and entertainment companies. If you are a foreign athlete or performer in need of a P-1 visa, contact our legal team at The Law Office of Zhang to get legal assistance.
Please contact us today to learn more about P-1 visas. Our San Francisco lawyer is also fluent in Mandarin and serves Spanish speaking clients upon request.
What Is the Eligibility Criteria for a P-1 Visa?
Generally speaking, P-1 visas are often given to sports teams and athletes that have gained international fame. Additionally, entertainment acts that have been recognized for a long time are often the recipients of this type of visa. It is important to note that only the performers in an entertainment act qualify for a P-1 visa and not the support personnel or stagehands.
Other eligibility criteria for a P-1 Visa includes:
- The competition or performance must be internationally recognized.
- The athletes or performers must have a high level of achievement above others in their field.
- For athletic teams, the event the team is competing in must require the participation of other internationally recognized athletic teams.
Who Qualifies as an "Athlete”?
In order for an athlete to be eligible for a P-1 visa, they must be internationally acclaimed for their athletic talents. If they belong to a team, the applicant must show proof of their employment, such as a contract. Other supporting documents include proof of participation in an international sporting event, a written letter from a major sports league or governing body confirming the individual's participation, and national and international athletic awards.
How Do I Apply for a P-1 Visa?
To apply for a P-1 Visa, your U.S. employer has to file a Petition for Non-Immigrant Worker, also called Form I-129, along with supporting documents and payment for any fees. Your employer will also need to submit a consultation that describes the work or services you will be performing in the United States, as well as your qualifications to perform such work.
Supporting Documents You Need
You will need to include the following documents with Form I-129:
- A written consultation from the appropriate labor organization.
- A copy of your contract with a major sports league or team that is based in the U.S.
- A written explanation of the event and itinerary.
You will also need to provide at least 2 of the following documents:
- Evidence that you participated in a significant portion of a prior season with a major United States sports league.
- Evidence that you were a significant part of a national team that participated in international competition.
- Evidence that you participated in a significant portion of a prior season for a U.S. college or university that participated in international competition.
- An official statement from a major U.S. sports league or governing body of the sport that explains how your team has gained international recognition.
- A written statement form a professional in the sports media that explains how your team has gained international recognition.
- Evidence that shows your team is internationally ranked.
- Evidence of significant honors or awards your team has received in the sport.
Speak to Our San Francisco Lawyers Today
At The Law Office Of Zhang, we are committed to helping clients resolve their immigration matters. We can review the details of your case and help you build a legal strategy that will help you secure a fair outcome. Let us put our skills to work for you today.
Contact us today to learn how our legal team can assist you.
