P-3 Visa

The P-3 visa is for artists or entertainers, individually or as a group, who are coming to the U.S. for developing, interpreting, representing, coaching or teaching a unique or traditional ethnic, folk, cultural, musical, theatrical artistic performance or presentation.

The spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 are permitted to accompany the P-3 to the United States, under a P-4 status. P-4 visa holders are not allowed to work, but may attend schools or colleges.

What steps should be taken to apply for the P visa?

The sponsor must send all necessary documents along with Form I-129 to the USCIS branch with jurisdiction over the area where you plan to perform. A U.S. agent may file a petition for workers who are self-employed, use agents to book short-term engagements with many different employers, or in situations where foreign employer(s) authorize the use of an agent to act on their behalf. This agent may be the employer of the performer, a representative of the employer or a person authorized to act on behalf of the employer.

What documents are needed?

For the P-3 Visa, you must provide the following documents:

• Form DS-160. Separate applications for each person are needed.
• One passport-style photo.
• A passport, valid for travel to the United States for at least six months longer than your intended visit.

The following documents are also required:

• Affidavits, testimonials or letters from recognized experts that know about your high level of skills.;
• Documentation that the performance is culturally unique;
• Consultation from an organization with expertise in the individual's or group's skills;
• Copy of the written contract between the performer(s) and the employer