P-3 is non-resident US visa for artists or entertainers coming into the Unites States to participate or to perform in a culturally unique program.
The P-3 classification applies to you if you are coming temporarily to perform, teach or coach as artists or entertainers, individually or as part of a group, under a program that is culturally unique.
The P-3 visa holder is allowed to stay for the time needed to complete the event, activity or performance, not to exceed 1 year. Can apply for an extension of stay.
Your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 may obtain P-4 status. Your dependents may not engage in employment, but may attend school or college.
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. The U.S. employer must file a separate Form I-129 for support personnel.
Eligibility Requirements
- For a P-3 visa, you must be coming to the United States either individually or as a group for the purpose of developing, interpreting, representing, coaching, or teaching a unique or traditional ethnic, folk, cultural, musical, theatrical, or artistic performance or presentation.
- In addition, you must be coming to the United States to participate in a cultural event or events which will further the understanding or development of your art form.
- The program may be of a commercial or noncommercial nature.
Application and Authorization Process
Your U.S. employer or sponsoring organization must submit Form I-129, Petition for a Non-Immigrant Worker.
Forms required to be submitted for this application
- Form I-129, Petition for a Non-Immigrant Worker.
Information that you will have to provide
Your Form I-129 must include the following documents:
- Written consultation from an appropriate labor organization
- A copy of the contract between the petitioner and the beneficiary or the summary of the terms of an oral agreement between the petitioner and the beneficiary
- An explanation of the event and itinerary
- Affidavits, testimonials or letters from recognized experts attesting to the authenticity of your 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 your or your group’s skills; OR documentation that your 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
How we can help
Our attorneys are available for consultation to discuss your options and responsibilities. To start the process:
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