SPORTS IMMIGRATION LAW: P-1 & O-1 VISAS

At least 33 of the Olympians proudly representing the United States at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics are foreign born. Thirteen hails from Europe, seven from Asia, followed by six from Africa, five from the Americas, and two from Australia.

Some of these Olympians had previously represented their country of birth in other editions of the Olympics. Sally Kipyego, for instance, represented Kenya at the London 2012 Olympics and won a silver medal in the 10,000 meters race. Sally will fly the United States flag at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Marathon.

If you are an elite athlete with sustained national and international acclaim and has participated in and won medals in events such as the Olympics, World Cup, or any other major international tournament or event, then you may qualify for a visa based on your accomplishments as an athlete.

Our experienced lawyer will help you decide the best immigration route for you to come train and compete in the United States.

Call us or text us at +1 (301) 960-3362 or submit your case to schedule a consultation.

O-1 Athlete Visa
The O-1 visa is for individuals with “extraordinary ability” in certain fields, including athletics, who are travelling to the U.S. to carry out work related to that ability. An athlete is considered to have “extraordinary ability” if he or she has gained national or international fame. The athlete’s coach, trainer, or manager may qualify for an O-2 visa to also travel to the U.S.

P-1 Athlete Visa
The P-1 visa is appropriate for professional athletes and sports teams that need to travel together for a competition in the U.S. To utilize a P-1 visa, the event the athletes are travelling for must be internationally recognized. Essential Support Personnel such as coaches, scouts, trainers, or other team officials central to the performance of the athlete or team may also be eligible for a visa.