Immigration

Athletes / Entertainers / Artists (P and O)

Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement

This visa is available to foreign nationals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or those who have a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

P Visa

The P Visa is granted to a performer, including an athlete, who is part of a group or team that is internationally recognized. Although the sole purpose of the stay is limited to a single performance, appearance, or competition, a single event is defined by Immigration to include an entire season, itinerary, or contract. For this reason, foreigners entering with P visas are granted stays of up to one year; athletes are granted entries of up to 5 years.

O Visa

In order to be granted a O-1 visa, the O-1 petition must be filed by a United States employer. Sometimes in specific fields, an agent can take in place of an employer. For the members who are of “essential support” to the O-1 holder, they may be able to obtain a O-2 visa. Family members of the O-1 holders are granted access to the United States with a O-3 visa.

Depending on your career, you will have to meet at least three criteria that will be proof of your extraordinary talents. Those who have received any career-defining achievements, such as an Academy Award or an Emmy, are excused from having to meet the number of criteria. Some examples of criteria include, but are not limited to, having a membership in a professional association, being a critique of others’ work in your field, and noticeably different pay scale than your colleagues

General Eligibility Criteria

In order to successfully be granted a O-1 visa you must meet the following requirements:

  • You have received nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence;

  • You belong to an organization requiring outstanding achievements of its members;

  • Your work has been published in or featured by major trade publications, professional journals, or major media outlets;

  • You have engaged in professional review or judging of the work of your peers in the same or a related field of specialization;

  • You have made major or significant and original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions;

  • You have worked in a leading or an essential capacity for a distinguished organization;

  • Your skills command a high salary.

Schedule a Consultation Today

At the Law Office of Gary J. Kim, we take great pride in the personalized attention we provide to each of our clients.  We understand how challenging the process can be, and we will work with you through every step to help you through. To schedule your free initial consultation, call us at (213) 427-6262 or contact us online.