P-1B Visa

P-1B Visa

  1. Overview
  2. Criteria
  3. Applying for Visa
  4. Supporting Documents
  5. Duration of Visa
  6. Family Member of P-1B Visa Holders

 

1. Overview

The P-1B classification applies to individuals temporarily coming to U.S. to perform as a member of an entertainment group that has been recognized internationally as outstanding, for a substantial period of time.

 

2. Criteria

  • At least 75 percent of the members of your group must have had a substantial and sustained relationship with the group for at least one (1) year.
  • Group must be internationally recognized,
  • Possess a high level of achievement in a field evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition.

 

3. Applying for Visa

Interview: As part of the visa application process, an interview at the embassy consular section is required for visa applicants from age 14 through 79. Early visa application is strongly encouraged due to varying waiting times for appointments.

Each applicant for a visitor visa must submit the following forms and documentation:

  • Online Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application, Form DS-160.
  • A passport valid for travel to the U.S. with a validity date of at least six months beyond the applicant’s intended period of stay in the U.S.
  • One (1) 2×2 photograph.

Your U.S. employer must submit:

  • Form I-129, Petition for a Non-Immigrant Worker accompanied by the appropriate fee and supporting documentation.

Please note that if you are a petitioner who will be filing as an agent for multiple employers you must establish that you are duly authorized to act as an agent. The required conditions can be found at the link to the right (see the memorandum “Requirements for Agents and Sponsors Filing as Petitioners for the O and P Visa Classifications”.

A consultation from an appropriate labor organization regarding the nature of the work to be done or a statement proving that the group has been established and performing regularly for a period of at least one year (If no appropriate labor organization exists, this requirement is excused)

 

4. Supporting Documents

Your U.S. employer must submit:

  • Form I-129, Petition for a Non-Immigrant Worker accompanied by the appropriate fee and supporting documentation.
  • A statement proving that the group has been established and performing regularly for a period of at least one year from appropriate organization. (Requirement may be waived in some circumstances).

A Form I-129 must include the following documents:

  • Written consultation from an appropriate labor organization;
  • Itinerary with the dates and locations of the performances;
  • A copy of the contract between the petitioner and the beneficiary;
  • Evidence that your group has been established and performing regularly for at least one year;
  • Statement from the petitioner listing each member of the group and the exact dates for which each member has been employed; and
  • Evidence that your group is internationally recognized as outstanding demonstrated by evidence of awards or, or evidence of at least three (3) of the following:
    • Your group has performed and will perform as a starring or leading entertainment group in production or events which have a distinguished reputation as evidenced by critical reviews, advertisements, publicity releases, publications, contracts, or endorsements;
    • Your group has achieved international recognition and acclaim as evidenced by reviews in major newspapers, trade journals, magazines or other published material;
    • Your group has performed and will perform services as a leading or starring group for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation as evidenced by articles in newspapers, trade journals, publications, or testimonials;
    • Your group has a record of major commercial or critically acclaimed successes;
    • Your group has received significant recognition for achievements from critics, organizations, government agencies or other recognized experts in the field; or
    • Your group has commanded and will command a high salary.

 

5. Duration of Visa

  • Time needed to complete the event, competition or performance, not to exceed 1 year.
  • Extensions in increments of up to 1 year may be given in order to continue or complete the event, competition or performance.

 

6. Family Member of P-1B Visa Holders

Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may obtain P-4 status. Dependents may not engage in employment, but may attend school or college.

 

7. More Information on P-1B Visas