English » U.S. Visa Services » Work Permit (Nonimmigrant Visa) » P Visa "Athletes, entertainment groups and their support personnel" » How does the application process work?
The application is handled by the US company/organization etc., it cannot be handled by the foreign artist/athlete/entertainer.
Once the appropriate U.S. labor organization has issued a favorable advisory opinion, there are two more steps to the application process:
1. An application has to be filed with the appropriate USCIS service center
The petition, along with form I-129 and the standard fees, has to be submitted to US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Additionally, extensive documentation concerning the applicant, the U.S. company/organization and the planned artistic/athletic activities in the US has to be enclosed.
For an extra US$ 1,000, premium processing is available. With premium processing, the USCIS guarantees a response (not a final decision) within 15 days.
2. Application to the consulate
Once the USCIS has issued a notice of approval (form I-797 – Approval Notice), the last step (usually) is to apply for the actual P visa at the appropriate U.S. consulate in the applicant’s home country.
HOWEVER: even with an approval notice issued by the USCIS, it is still possible for the U.S. consulate to refuse the visa, e.g. due to formal errors or other concerns. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare this application just as carefully.
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