P2S Visa

The P2S visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows individuals to temporarily come to the United States in order to provide support to a P2 visa holding artist or entertainer. The P2S visa is only issued in connection to issuance of a P2 visa.

Who qualifies for a P2S visa?

In order to qualify for the P2S visa, it must be necessary that the individual provide essential support services to a P2 visa holder while they are in the United States. An individual provides essential support services if they are an integral part of the P2 visa holder’s performance while in the United States. Additionally, the P2S visa holder must be providing support services for the P2 visa holder that cannot be readily performed or provided by a U.S. worker.

Common examples of P2S visa support personnel include stagehands or trainers, or those who have critical knowledge of the services to be performed.

What is the process for obtaining a P2S visa?

The process to apply for the P2S visa requires that both the essential support personnel and their employer or sponsor submit documentation to the United States government. The steps below outline the application process:

1. Step One: File Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker

   The first step to apply for the P2S visa requires the applicant’s agent, potential employer, or sponsor file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker specifically for the essential support personnel. The P2S visa essential support personnel must have their own Form I-129 submitted by the petitioner. It is not sufficient to file only one Form I-129 intended for both the P2 visa artist or entertainer and the P2S visa essential support personnel.

   In addition to Form I-129, a written consultation from an applicable labor organization appropriate for the P2S visa must be submitted as well. A labor organization is appropriate if it has expertise in the area of the essential support personnel’s skill. Both the Form I-129 and the written consultation from a labor organization must be filed with the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS).

   Specific Evidence to be Submitted with Form I-129

   When submitting Form I-129, certain evidence must be included that proves the P2S visa applicant’s integral support to the P2 visa holder, including that no U.S. worker is available to provide the same service as the P2S visa applicant. Additionally, evidence of the contract, events, or activities that cause them to seek entry into the United States may need to be submitted with Form I-129. The evidentiary requirements are discussed in more detail below:

   1. Labor Certification

      The P2S visa applicant must have a written consultation from an appropriate labor organization that identifies the work or services to be performed by the P2S applicant while in the United States, as well as their qualifications for the work. The labor organization must have expertise in the area of the essential support personnel’s skill. The labor organization may also submit a letter stating they do not object to the petition being approved.

   2. Evidence of Events in the United States

      Along with the written consultation, the USCIS advises that the P2S applicant submit an itinerary of the events or performances, including a list of the dates and locations of the events, if they will take place in multiple areas. This should include an explanation of the events to occur in the United States.

   3. Evidence of Agreement

      The petitioning employer or sponsor must also provide a copy of the oral or written agreement between the employer or sponsor and the P2S visa applicant(s).

   4. Evidence of Essentiality

      Evidence must also be submitted in the form of a statement that describes the P2S visa applicant’s essentiality and critical skills. Additionally, the statement must describe the P2S visa applicant’s experience with the P2 visa holder.

2. Step Two: USCIS Process Form I-129

   Once the USCIS receives Form I-129, the employer, agent, or sponsor will receive the following in return:

   • A receipt notice confirming the petition was received;
   • A notice to appear for an interview, if required;
   • A biometric services notice, if applicable; and
   • A notice of decision, Form I-797, Notice of Action.

3. Step Three: P2S Visa Applicant Submits Form DS-160

   The P2S visa applicant must complete Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 and pay the fee. This involves uploading a photo of the applicant that conforms to the U.S. Department of State photograph requirements. Once Form DS-160 is submitted, the P2S applicant must download and print the confirmation page showing Form DS-160 was completed and the filing fee paid. The confirmation page will need to be brought to the visa interview at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy.

4. Step Four: Interview Requirement

   After submitting the form DS-160, the P2S visa applicant will receive form I-797 and may be required to attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate where an official will evaluate an applicant’s application and ask questions pertaining to the applicant’s qualifications for the P2S visa.

   At the interview, the P2S visa applicant must bring the following documentation:

   • Receipt notice Form I-797, confirming petition Form I-129 was received;
   • Form DS-160 confirmation page;
   • Copies of labor certification documentation;
   • Evidence of events in the United States;
   • Evidence of agreement between employer/sponsor and visa applicant;
   • Evidence of essentiality and critical skills;
   • Evidence of past experience with the P2 visa holder;
   • Valid passport(s);
   • Photos that meets photograph requirements;
   • Visa application fee receipt;
   • Visa interview confirmation letter;
   • Receipts showing the applicant(s) paid all fees;
   • The interview confirmation letter.

Can P2S visa holders apply for a green card?

P2S visa holder essential support personnel may not generally apply for a green card based on their P2S visa. The P2S visa requires the visa holder to declare their intention to return to their home abroad and prove they have an established residence abroad that they will keep through the duration of their stay in the U.S.

Can you study in the United States under the P2S visa?

Yes. P2S visa holders may study full-time or part-time while in the United States so long as the original conditions of the P2S visa are adhered to. If the educational program lasts longer than the period of validity for the P2S visa, the visa holder should apply for a student visa that would permit them to remain in the United States for the purpose of completing their education. Continuing education is not a valid basis for extending the P2S visa.

How much does it cost to apply for a P2S visa?

• The fee to submit form DS-160 is $160.
• The cost of any biometrics fee is $85
• The fee to submit Form I-129 is $460
• Medical exam costs vary

For how long is the P2S visa valid?

Generally, the P2S visa is valid for as long as it takes the P2 visa holder to complete the event, competition, or performance, but is capped at one year.

Extensions may be requested by the primary P2 visa holder by re-filing Form I-129 with the USCIS. The P2S visa can be extended with the primary P visa by also re-filing Form I-129. Extensions will be granted if the primary P visa holder(s) need more time to complete the event or performance. However, extensions will be granted for no longer than one year.