Sports Immigration
Visa Options for Athletes
Visas for Professional Athletes
At McEntee Law Group, we are passionate advocates for immigrants. That passion is matched by our love for sports. We are here to help athletes bring their extraordinary talents to the United States.Our team of experienced immigration attorneys have had immense success helping sports teams across the United States and is here to also guide you through.
What visa options are available for professional athletes?
P-1A: Internationally Recognized Athletes
This visa allows individual athletes and teams to temporarily come to the U.S. to compete. To qualify, the athlete or team must show that they are highly skilled and internationally recognized in a way that sets them apart from others. In order for the competition to qualify, the event must be distinguished and require the participation of internationally recognized teams. Our attorneys have successfully represented major league athletes and would be glad to help you or your team with your application.
O1-A: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability in Athletics
This visa is intended for foreign nationals who have made extraordinary achievements in and contributions to their field. To qualify, O-1A applicants must show that they have reached the very top of their field, and that they are coming to the U.S. to continue their work in that field. O-1A visas require the applicant to provide substantial evidence of their extraordinary ability, but our team regularly files O-1A applications. McEntee Law is happy to guide athletes through this process.
Is there a visa option for athletic support professionals?
O-2: Individuals who will accompany an O-1 athlete
The O-1 visa is reserved for essential support personnel, and individuals who are integral to the success of the O-1 beneficiary in the United States. The evidence provided for an O-2 Visa candidate should establish the essential, critical skills, and experience of the O-2 beneficiary with the O-1 individual. It must be established that the O-2 beneficiary has substantial experience performing the critical skills and essential support services for the O-1 individual.
Is there a permanent residency option?
Athletes at the top of their game may qualify for employment-based green cards. Like the O-1B visa, they can apply based on extraordinary ability. There is also a green card option with those with exceptional ability. The best green card for you depends on the evidence you can provide. Our team at McEntee Law Group is very familiar with the employment-based green card application process, and we regularly work with athletes and creative professionals. We are happy to chat with you to discuss your options.
