Who the P-1 is for
#- Internationally recognized athletes or teams
- Entertainment groups with sustained recognition
- Support personnel tied to the primary P-1 petition
Official guidance to review
#Use the category-specific USCIS page and State Department resources before applying.
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- USCIS petition filed by a U.S. sponsor or agent
- Evidence of international recognition
- Consultation letter from a labor organization
- Event contracts or itinerary
- P-1 is for internationally recognized athletes or groups.
Documents and evidence
#Prepare credentials, job or program details, and evidence that matches your visa category. Consular posts may request additional documents based on your case.
- Awards, rankings, press coverage, and contracts
- Consultation letter and itinerary
- I-129 approval notice
- DS-160 confirmation and passport
Step-by-step overview
#- Sponsor files the I-129 petition with supporting evidence.
- Complete DS-160 and schedule a consular interview.
- Attend interview with petition approval and event materials.
- Enter the U.S. and perform at approved events.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#Verify Department of State visa fees and any USCIS filing fees that apply. USCIS petition fees and consular visa fees may apply.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS filing fees
Processing times
#Timelines depend on USCIS petition steps (if required) and consular interview availability. Petition and interview timing should align with event dates.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS processing times tool
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa appointment wait times (Department of State)
Common mistakes that cause delays
#- Evidence does not demonstrate international recognition
- Missing or late consultation letters
- Itinerary does not match petition scope
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
What counts as “internationally recognized” for P-1?
USCIS looks for sustained acclaim, rankings, awards, or major media coverage that show recognition above the national level.
Do P-1 athletes need a consultation letter?
Yes, most petitions include a consultation from an appropriate labor organization or peer group.
Can support staff apply with P-1?
Essential support personnel can qualify under related P classifications when tied to the approved P-1 event.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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