Athletes, Artists, and Entertainers

What is a P visa?

A P visa is for certain athletes, artists and entertainers who wish to live and work temporarily in the United States. To begin the application process, the future employer must file a Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) in the United States with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security. If approved, the USCIS will mail the petitioner a Form I-797 (Notice of Action). The beneficiary may then apply for a P visa at the United States Embassy in Bogotá.

P-1 Visa (Internationally Recognized Athletes/Entertainers)

An internationally recognized athlete traveling to the United States to compete and his or her essential support personnel require P-1 visas. An internationally recognized entertainer traveling to the United States to perform requires a P-1 visa.

P-3 Visa (Culturally Unique Programs)

An artist or entertainer who is traveling to the United States to perform, teach, or coach under a culturally unique program requires a P-3 visa.

P-4 Visa (Spouse and Children of a P Visa Holder)

Spouses and children under the age of 21 can receive P-4 visas to travel with or follow-to-join the principal alien in the United States.

For a more complete explanation of these and other permissible P activities, please see 9 FAM 41.56. (PDF 149 KB)

How do I apply for a P visa?

Please see our How to Apply for a Visa page.

Which documents are required to apply for a P visa?

Please see our Documents Required for Visa Application page.