Can I Apply for P-1 Visa to Enter and Work in U.S. as a Singer?

Home | William's Answers for Immigration and Visa Questions

Hi William,

As a singer in a band and vocal group, we are invited to perform in the United States next month for several events. Can I get the P-1 visa to enter U.S. as a singer to work in U.S.?

Answer,

The P-1 visa category is an attractive method for entertainers who are part of an entertainment group coming to the United States to perform. The dance troupes, acting companies, orchestras and vocal groups are examples of the type of groups that use the P-1 visa for their members.

The P-1 visa category is usually reserved for those entertainers who are part of a group. An individual performers cannot obtain a P-1 visa, unless they are coming to the U.S. to join a foreign entertainment group. The group with which a P-1 entertainer must be internationally recognized as outstanding in the discipline for a “sustained and substantial period of time,” or the group is nationally recognized for a sustained and substantial period of time.

If your band and vocal group meets the requirements, you can apply for a P-1B visa to perform in the United States. To qualify, the group must have been internationally recognized for a sustained period, with at least 75% of its members having been part of the group for at least one year. The P-1B visa is designed for members of an internationally recognized entertainment group that is coming to the U.S. to perform as a unit.

To apply for P-1B visa, you need to meet the P-1B visa requirements:

1) International Recognition: The group must be renowned, leading, or well-known in more than one country.

2) Sustained Association: At least 75% of the members must have had a relationship with the group for at least one year.

3) Group Performance: The group must be coming to the U.S. to perform as a unit, not as solo artists performing separately from the group.

4) Established for One Year: The group must have been established and performing for a minimum of one year.

A U.S. employer, organization, or agent must file a petition on behalf of the group. The petition must include a written contract between the group and the petitioner, an itinerary of performances, and a consultation from a labor organization. The petition must also include evidence of the group's international standing, such as news articles, awards, or proof of high achievements.

The initial visa validity is for up to one year. It can be extended in one-year increments to complete the performance.