P-3 Visa: For Skilled Artists And Entertainers
The P-3 visa is designated for individuals or groups who plan to enter the United States temporarily to perform, teach, or coach in the arts or entertainment sector, with a focus on unique cultural programs. Eligibility for this visa requires participation in activities such as developing, interpreting, representing, coaching, or teaching distinctive or traditional forms of ethnic, folk, cultural, musical, theatrical, or artistic performances or presentations. Applicants must engage in cultural events aimed at enhancing the appreciation or development of their art form, which can be either commercial or non-commercial in nature.
Common Questions And Answers About P-3 Visas
Can support personnel who are not performers come with my P-3 group as well?
Yes, essential support personnel who are an integral part of the performance of a P- 3 artist or entertainer and who perform support services that cannot be readily performed by a U.S. worker, are eligible for P-3 classification. Support personnel may include coaches, scouts, trainers and other team officials and referees.
What documents do I need for a P-3 to prove “cultural uniqueness”?
To demonstrate the group and the event is culturally unique, you must provide:
- An explanation of the event and itinerary
- Affidavits, testimonials or letters from recognized experts attesting to the authenticity of you or your group’s skills in performing, presenting, coaching or teaching the unique and traditional art forms and giving the credentials of the expert, including the basis of his or her knowledge of you or your group’s skills; or documentation that you or your group’s performance is culturally unique as evidenced by reviews in newspapers, journals or other published materials.
- Documentation that all of the performances or presentations will be culturally unique events such as brochures, advertisements, website, etc. that describe the event.
How long can I stay on a P-3 visa/status?
Initial P-3 visas are approved for the time needed to complete the event, activity or performance, not to exceed 1-year. In addition, P-3 visas can be extended for increments of up to 1 year for as long as the event(s) are expected to last.
Can my spouse and children come with me on P-3?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 may obtain P-4 status. Your dependents may not engage in employment, but they may attend school or college.
Are my spouse and children able to work while on P-4 status (dependent of a P-3)?
No. There is currently no facility for employment authorization for a P-4 dependent.
Schedule A Free Case Evaluation
If you need help securing a work visa, call Fok Immigration Law at 408-212-7014 to discuss your options with an experienced business immigration attorney. You can also contact us online. Based in San Jose, we serve clients throughout California.