The P-1 visa is a category aimed at outstanding athletes who come to the United States to perform with a specific sponsor. In general, the visa is issued based on an approved petition that includes the terms of the contract with the club or sponsoring entity. This means that the visa is directly tied to the agreement and relationship with the entity that submitted the petition.
If you consider re-signing with another club, it is important to know that, normally, this will require filing a new P-1 visa petition. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office reviews each case based on the proposal submitted. Thus, a change of club usually means that the new employer or sponsor must submit new documentation and demonstrate that the contract and planned activities meet the criteria of the P-1 visa.
Furthermore, it is essential to comply with all United States immigration rules and laws during this process. Changing entities without proper regularization can lead to complications with your immigration status. Therefore, it is recommended to always contact specialized professionals or recognized companies in the field to analyze your individual case and avoid scams or marketing campaigns promising miraculous solutions. Each situation is unique, and the requirements may vary according to the specifics of the contract and the athlete’s representation.
Therefore, ensure that all steps are correctly followed to minimize risks and secure that you remain compliant with U.S. immigration laws.
Learn more about P-1
- Type
- Athletes and entertainment groups
- Requirement
- Internationally recognized
- Validity
- Up to 5 years (athletes)
- Extension
- Up to 10 years total
About the author
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.