P-1 Visa Filing: For Athletes & Entertainment Groups Ready to Compete in the US
Agent-based P-1 petition for internationally recognized athletes and performers
✓ 94% approval rate
✓ Filed within 30 days
✓ Multiple team flexibility
✓ Compete for unlimited teams
✓ Touring freedom
Is P-1 Ready Filing Right for You?
This service is for athletes and entertainment groups who have international competition or performance experience and are ready to file for P-1 status immediately. You've competed or performed internationally—now you need the petition filed with an agent-based structure that allows you to compete for multiple teams or perform at multiple venues.
You're Ready to File If:
P-1A Athletes (Individual or Team)
You have international athletic experience including:
✓ Competed in Olympic Games, World Championships, World Cup, or other major international competitions
✓ Member of professional team competing internationally
✓ Individual athlete with international rankings or achievements
✓ National team selection
✓ Professional league participation in multiple countries
✓ International tournament experience
✓ Major competition participation
Sport Categories:
✓ Soccer, basketball, baseball, hockey, tennis
✓ Track and field, swimming, gymnastics
✓ Combat sports (MMA, boxing, martial arts)
✓ Golf, skiing, volleyball, cycling
✓ Any sport with international competition structure
P-1B Entertainment Groups
You're part of an entertainment group with:
✓ Established group for 1+ year with 75%+ same members
✓ International recognition and performances
✓ Performed in multiple countries
✓ Media coverage and reviews
✓ Awards or nominations
✓ Touring experience
Entertainment Categories:
✓ Musical groups (bands, orchestras, ensembles)
✓ Dance troupes
✓ Theater companies
✓ Circus performers
✓ Cultural performance groups
You Want Agent-Based Structure
You don't want to be tied to one team or venue. You want the freedom to:
✓ Compete for multiple teams per season
✓ Participate in tournaments with different organizations
✓ Perform at multiple venues
✓ Training camps anywhere
✓ Exhibition matches/performances
✓ Endorsement deals
✓ Agent manages your career
You're Ready to File Now
You have your competition/performance history documented, you have contracts or itineraries ready, and you want to file within the next 30 days.
Not Sure If You Qualify?
Take our assessment (CTA button) and our sports visa specialists will evaluate your athletic or entertainment history within 48 hours.
Need More Evidence First?
If your international experience is limited, visit we can work to build P-1 evidence through:
✓ Competition documentation
✓ Media coverage generation
✓ Ranking verification
✓ Athletic profile development
Investment & Payment Options
Base P-1 Filing Package
Upfront Payment: $8,000 Pay in full before filing begins. Save $2,000 compared to payment plan.
Payment Plan: $10,000 Minimum $2,000/month installments. Must be paid in full before petition is filed with USCIS.
Example: $10,000 = 5 monthly payments of $2,000, then we file your petition.
What's Included in Every P-1 Filing:
Agent-based Visa petition and the procurement of world class Visa work on the Petition
✓ Complete P-1 petition preparation (Form I-129 with P supplement)
✓ Detailed petition letter (20-40 pages)
✓ Athletic or entertainment evidence compilation
✓ Competition or performance itinerary creation
✓ Agent-petitioner service (IGTA as your official agent)
✓ Contract or letter of agreement documentation
✓ Peer consultation coordination (required for P-1)
✓ Attorney coordination and legal review
✓ One RFE response included
✓ Regular processing (4-6 months USCIS decision)
✓ Dedicated sports visa specialist
✓ Direct communication throughout process
Add-On Services (Optional):
P-1S Essential Support Personnel - $3,000 For coaches, trainers, or other essential personnel accompanying athlete or group. Includes: Complete P-1S petition preparation, evidence of essential role, coordinated filing.
P-4 Dependent Visa - $1,000 per family member For spouse and children under 21. Includes: Family relationship documentation, dependent status petition, coordinated filing.
Consular Processing - $1,000 For athletes/performers outside the US who need visa stamps. Includes: DS-160 form assistance, consular interview preparation, visa stamp guidance.
Premium Processing - $2,805 USCIS mandatory fee for 15-day decision (paid directly to USCIS). Includes: Expedited petition preparation, priority case management, 15-day USCIS response.
Refile/Repackaging Service:
✓ Basic Refile - $500 (minor changes, updated evidence)
✓ Full Repackaging - $1,000 (substantial changes, comprehensive refile strategy) Includes: One additional RFE response, petition review and updates.
Total Investment Examples:
P-1 Only (Upfront):
✓ IGTA Service Fee: $8,000
✓ USCIS Filing Fee: $1,055 (paid directly to USCIS)
✓ Total: $9,055
P-1 Only (Payment Plan):
✓ IGTA Service Fee: $10,000
✓ USCIS Filing Fee: $1,055 (paid directly to USCIS)
✓ Total: $11,055
P-1 with Premium Processing (Upfront)
✓ IGTA Service Fee: $8,000
✓ USCIS Filing Fee: $1,055
✓ Premium Processing: $2,805 (paid directly to USCIS)
✓ Total: $11,860
P-1 with Coach (P-1S):
✓ IGTA Service Fee (athlete): $8,000
✓ IGTA Service Fee (coach): $3,000
✓ USCIS Filing Fees: $1,055 per petition
✓ Total: $11,000 (IGTA) + USCIS fees
P-1 with Family (Spouse + 1 Child):
✓ IGTA Service Fee: $8,000
✓ P-4 for spouse: $1,000
✓ P-4 for child: $1,000
✓ USCIS Filing Fees: $1,055 per petition
✓ Total: $10,000 (IGTA) + USCIS fees
IMPORTANT NOTE: USCIS filing fees are paid separately by client directly to USCIS. Current USCIS fees: $1,055 for Form I-129. These government fees are in addition to IGTA's professional service fees.
Understanding P-1A and P-1B Categories
P-1A: Individual Athletes or Athletic Teams
Who Qualifies:
✓ Internationally recognized athlete competing individually or as part of a team
✓ Competing at a major level in a sport
✓ Substantial international competition participation
Competition Level:
✓ Professional leagues
✓ International tournaments
✓ Olympic or World Championship level
✓ National team participation
✓ Significant amateur competition at international level
Evidence Required:
✓ International competition participation
✓ Rankings (national or international)
✓ Media coverage
✓ Awards and honors
✓ Team contracts or tournament schedules
✓ Proof of international recognition
Validity:
✓ Up to 1 year initially (or length of competition season)
✓ Extensions up to maximum 10 years total
✓ Multiple renewals allowed
Examples:
✓ Professional soccer player competing in US leagues
✓ Olympic athlete training and competing in US
✓ Individual tennis player on international circuit
✓ Member of national team competing in US
✓ Combat sport athlete (MMA, boxing) with international record
P-1B: Entertainment Groups
Who Qualifies:
✓ Entertainment group established for at least 1 year
✓ 75% or more of group members have been together for 1+ year
✓ Internationally recognized group
✓ Coming to US to perform
Group Types:
✓ Musical groups (bands, orchestras)
✓ Dance troupes
✓ Theater companies
✓ Circus performers
✓ Cultural performance groups
Evidence Required:
✓ Proof of group establishment (1+ year)
✓ Member stability documentation (75% same)
✓ International performance history
✓ Media coverage and reviews
✓ Awards or nominations
✓ Recording contracts or releases (if applicable)
✓ Box office receipts
✓ Performance itinerary in US
Validity:
✓ Up to 1 year per petition
✓ Extensions allowed for continued performances
✓ Based on tour or event schedule
Examples:
✓ International band touring US cities
✓ Dance group performing at multiple venues
✓ Cultural ensemble on US tour
✓ Theater company bringing production to US
✓ Circus troupe touring US
Which One Am I?
Solo Athlete → P-1A Competing individually in sport with international experience
Team Sport Athlete → P-1A Part of team competing at major level
Band/Musical Group → P-1B Established group (75%+ same members for 1+ year) performing together
Dance Troupe → P-1B Choreographed group performing together
Circus/Performance Group → P-1B Entertainment ensemble touring or performing
Not Sure? Take our assessment and we'll determine which category fits your situation.
World-Class P-1 Petition Preparation
Complete P-1 Petition Package
Form I-129 with P Supplement Complete preparation of Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker with P classification supplement and all required fields.
Comprehensive Petition Letter (20-40 Pages) Strategic presentation of your athletic or entertainment achievements, demonstrating why you qualify for P-1 status.
Athletic or Entertainment Evidence Compilation All supporting documents organized professionally:
✓ Competition participation records
✓ International recognition documentation
✓ Rankings and awards
✓ Media coverage
✓ Performance history
✓ Group establishment proof (P-1B)
✓ Member stability documentation (P-1B)
Competition or Performance Itinerary Detailed schedule of your planned activities in the US:
✓ Competition dates and locations
✓ Tournament schedules
✓ Performance venues and dates
✓ Training camp schedules
✓ Exhibition matches/performances
Contract or Letter of Agreement Documentation of your engagement with US teams, organizations, or venues:
✓ Team contracts
✓ Tournament participation agreements
✓ Venue booking confirmations
✓ League participation documentation
Peer Consultation Documentation Required for all P-1 petitions - consultation with appropriate labor organization:
✓ We coordinate with relevant unions or labor groups
✓ Athletic advisory opinions obtained
✓ Entertainment industry consultations arranged
✓ Labor organization letters procured
Agent-Petitioner Service IGTA serves as your official petitioner with USCIS, documentation of our authority to file on your behalf.
Agent-Petitioner Benefits for Athletes and Performers
Multiple Teams or Venues Play for multiple teams per season, perform at various venues, participate in tournaments with different organizations—all under one visa.
No Refiling When You Switch Change teams, add new venues, or adjust your schedule without notifying USCIS or filing new petitions.
Touring Flexibility For entertainment groups: Tour multiple cities and venues without restriction. For athletes: Participate in exhibition matches, tournaments, and training camps anywhere.
Training and Development Attend training camps with any organization, work with different coaches, or participate in development programs.
Endorsement Deals Compatible Pursue sponsorships and endorsements while maintaining P-1 status. Your agent structure allows commercial partnerships.
Agent Manages Your Career Like professional sports, your agent (IGTA) coordinates with all your teams, venues, and organizations while you focus on performance.
Professional Support Throughout
Dedicated Sports Visa Specialist A specific IGTA expert in athletic and entertainment visas is assigned to your case. We understand the unique requirements of P-1 petitions.
Direct Coordination with Teams/Organizations We communicate with your US teams, venues, leagues, or organizations to gather required documentation and letters.
Contract Review Assistance We review your contracts or letters of agreement to ensure they meet USCIS requirements.
Schedule Optimization We help structure your competition or performance itinerary to maximize USCIS approval while giving you career flexibility.
Peer Consultation Coordination We handle all communication with labor organizations to obtain required peer consultations.
RFE Response (One Included) If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, we prepare and submit the response at no additional cost.
Why Athletes Choose Agent-Based P-1
The Agent-Based Advantage for Athletes
Traditional P-1 petitions filed by a single team or organization create restrictions: you're tied to that one entity, can't participate in outside tournaments without approval, and have limited flexibility. Agent-based P-1 petitions eliminate these restrictions.
With IGTA as Agent vs. Team-Sponsored:
TEAM-SPONSORED P-1
✗ Tied to one team only
✗ Limited competition schedule
✗ New petition to switch teams
✗ No exhibition games without approval
✗ Restricted training options
✗ Team controls your visa
✗ Single-entity dependency
IGTA AGENT-BASED P-1
✓ Play for multiple teams per season
✓ Unlimited tournament participation
✓ Switch teams freely, no refiling
✓ Exhibition matches allowed
✓ Training camps anywhere
✓ You control your career
✓ Multiple team/organization relationships
Real-World Scenarios for Athletes:
Scenario 1: You Get Offers from Multiple Teams
Team-Sponsored: You must choose one team and hope they sponsor you. If that doesn't work out or you want to play for a second team, you need complex visa arrangements.
Agent-Based with IGTA: Accept offers from multiple teams and compete for whichever combination makes sense for your career. Play for Team A three games, Team B five games—no problem.
Scenario 2: Tournament Opportunity Arises
Team-Sponsored: You may need your sponsoring team's permission and potentially additional USCIS filings to participate in outside tournaments.
Agent-Based with IGTA: Accept any tournament invitation that fits your itinerary. It's covered under your agent-based petition.
Scenario 3: Training Camp with Different Organization
Team-Sponsored: Training with organizations other than your petitioner may require approval or amendments.
Agent-Based with IGTA: Attend training camps with any organization. It's part of your professional development covered in your itinerary.
Scenario 4: Endorsement Deal
Team-Sponsored: Team may have approval rights or restrictions on outside endorsements.
Agent-Based with IGTA: Pursue endorsement deals freely. They're compatible with your agent-based structure.
Success Stories
Francis Ngannou - MMA Champion
"I used this petitioner service to make a change from the UFC to be more independent. I've used the petitioner service to compete, film on Netflix, and start multiple businesses; all on the same visa petition."
Francis's agent-based P-1 allowed him to:
✓ Leave UFC and compete in multiple organizations
✓ Film documentary projects on Netflix
✓ Start multiple business ventures
✓ Maintain complete career independence
✓ All under one P-1 visa without refiling
Maya Bruney - Olympian
"I've had the pleasure of using the petitioner service twice. First for my P-1 visa to compete in track in the United States and then second for my O-1 visa to work as a Brand Manager for Brandon Marshall's House of Athlete in Miami."
Maya's journey demonstrates:
✓ P-1 for athletic competition (track and field)
✓ Complete flexibility in competition schedule
✓ Later transitioned to O-1 for professional role
✓ Agent-based structure supported both visas
✓ Now works as Brand Manager while maintaining visa status
Legal Basis:
Agent-based P-1 petitions are explicitly permitted under 8 CFR 214.2(p). Athletic agents have long used this structure, and it's well-established in professional sports immigration.
What USCIS Requires for P-1 Approval
Major International Competition Participation
✓ Olympic Games, World Championships, World Cup
✓ Professional international leagues
✓ Significant international tournaments
✓ National team participation
For P-1A Athletes
Evidence of International Recognition:
You must provide documentation showing you're internationally recognized in your sport. USCIS accepts various forms of evidence including at least 2 of the following:
Evidence includes:
✓ Competition records
✓ Official results
✓ Tournament brackets
✓ Team rosters
✓ Event programs
Rankings
✓ National rankings in your sport
✓ International rankings
✓ Official ranking organization documentation
✓ Comparative ranking data
Media Coverage
✓ Articles about your competitions in major sports media
✓ Television or radio coverage
✓ Sports journalism featuring you
✓ Online sports publication features
✓ Social media coverage by major sports outlets
Awards and Honors
✓ Medals or trophies from international competitions
✓ National championship wins
✓ Sport-specific honors
✓ MVP or similar recognition
✓ All-star team selection
Team Contract or Tournament Schedule
✓ Professional team contract in US
✓ Tournament participation confirmation
✓ League membership
✓ Event invitation letter
Peer Consultation (Required)
✓ Letter from appropriate labor organization
✓ Athletic advisory opinion
✓ Union consultation (if applicable)
✓ League consultation
Minimum Standard:
You must be coming to compete at a major level, which generally means:
✓ Professional level competition, OR
✓ International amateur competition at significant level, OR
✓ Part of team or in event with distinguished reputation
For P-1B Entertainment Groups
Evidence of International Acclaim:
You must provide documentation showing your group is internationally recognized. Required evidence includes:
Group Establishment
✓ Proof 75%+ of group members have been together for at least 1 year
✓ Documentation of group formation date
✓ Member roster with join dates
✓ Performance history together
International Recognition At least 3 of the following:
Performed as Star/Leading Group
✓ Featured performer status in multiple countries
✓ Headliner billing
✓ Top billing in international venues
Reviews in Major Media
✓ Reviews in major newspapers or publications
✓ Positive critical reception
✓ Industry publication coverage
✓ International media mentions
Box Office Success
✓ Significant ticket sales internationally
✓ Sold-out performances
✓ Revenue documentation
✓ Attendance records
Significant Awards or Nominations
✓ International awards
✓ Major industry recognition
✓ Festival prizes
✓ Critical acclaim
Recording Contracts or Releases
✓ International record label contracts
✓ Album or single releases in multiple countries
✓ Streaming platform presence
✓ Commercial releases
Performed for Distinguished Organizations
✓ Major venues internationally
✓ Government events
✓ Significant cultural events
✓ Notable organization invitations
Peer Consultation (Required)
✓ Letter from appropriate labor organization
✓ Entertainment industry union consultation
✓ Professional association advisory opinion
Performance Itinerary in US
✓ Confirmed performance dates
✓ Venue confirmations
✓ Tour schedule
✓ Event contracts
From Athletic Assessment to Approval
Our 94% approval rate means most petitions succeed on first submission. However, if USCIS issues a Request for Evidence or denial, you have options:
Step 1: Athletic Assessment
What Happens:
✓ You submit your competition/performance history
✓ Our sports visa specialists evaluate against P-1 requirements
✓ We determine P-1A vs P-1B category
✓ We identify any evidence gaps
✓ You receive detailed assessment within 48 hours
What You Provide:
✓ Athletic resume or group biography
✓ Competition participation records
✓ Rankings documentation (if applicable)
✓ Media coverage of competitions/performances
✓ Awards and recognition certificates
✓ Team contracts or venue agreements
✓ Competition/performance itinerary
✓ Passport copy
Step 2: Petition Preparation
What Happens:
✓ Sports visa specialist assigned to your file
✓ Payment plan established (if using payment plan option)
✓ Evidence compilation begins
✓ Petition letter drafting
✓ Form I-129 with P supplement completion
✓ Competition or performance itinerary creation
✓ Peer consultation coordination
✓ Contract documentation
✓ Attorney review
✓ Final petition assembly
Your Role:
✓ Provide any missing documentation
✓ Review itinerary and approve
✓ Sign necessary forms
✓ Coordinate with teams/venues as needed
Our Role:
✓ Handle all preparation work
✓ Coordinate with teams, venues, leagues
✓ Obtain peer consultation letters
✓ Organize evidence professionally
✓ Write compelling petition letter
✓ Ensure USCIS compliance
Timeline: Petition preparation takes approximately 2-3 weeks once all documentation is provided.
Step 3: Filing with USCIS
What Happens:
✓ Final review with you
✓ All signatures obtained
✓ Payment to IGTA must be complete (payment plan or upfront)
✓ Complete petition package mailed to USCIS
✓ Receipt notice tracking
✓ Case monitoring begins
What You Receive:
✓ Copy of filed petition for your records
✓ USCIS receipt notice (arrives 2-4 weeks post-filing)
✓ Case tracking number
✓ Direct contact with sports visa specialist
USCIS Processing Options:
Regular Processing:
✓ USCIS decision in 4-6 months
✓ Standard government processing
✓ No additional fee
Premium Processing:
✓ USCIS must respond within 15 calendar days
✓ Approve, deny, or issue RFE
✓ Additional $2,805 fee (paid directly to USCIS)
✓ Best for urgent competition schedules
Step 4: Approval & Competition
What Happens:
✓ USCIS reviews your petition
✓ If RFE issued: We prepare and submit response
✓ Approval notice (Form I-797) issued by USCIS
✓ Sports visa specialist coordinates next steps
If You're Already in the US:
✓ Change of status approved
✓ Begin competing immediately on approval date
✓ No visa stamp needed
If You're Outside the US:
✓ Consular processing required
✓ Apply for P-1 visa stamp at US consulate
✓ DS-160 form completion
✓ Consular interview
✓ Visa stamp issued
✓ Enter US and begin competition
Your Agent Relationship: IGTA remains your agent-petitioner throughout your P-1 validity. We coordinate with all your teams, venues, and organizations, manage your competition itinerary, and handle renewals.
How Long P-1 Lasts and Extensions
Initial P-1 Validity
P-1A Athletes:
✓ Up to 1 year initially
✓ Can be based on season length or competition schedule
✓ May request up to 5 years for individual athletes in some cases
✓ Based on contract or event duration
P-1B Entertainment Groups:
✓ Up to 1 year per petition
✓ Based on performance tour or event schedule
✓ Tied to specific performance dates
Extension Rules
P-1A Extensions:
✓ Maximum 10 years total in P-1A status
✓ Extensions granted in increments based on continued competition
✓ Must show continued international recognition
✓ Can extend multiple times up to 10-year cap
P-1B Extensions:
✓ Maximum 1 year per extension
✓ Must show continued group establishment and recognition
✓ Extensions granted for continued tour or performances
✓ No overall time limit but 1-year increments
Benefits:
✓ Simplified renewal process
✓ Consistent representation
✓ Long-term visa planning
✓ Career continuity
Agent Continuity Throughout
IGTA as Your Long-Term Agent:
✓ Remains your petitioner for all renewals
✓ Coordinates with your teams or venues for extension documentation
✓ Handles all USCIS communication
✓ Manages your evolving competition/performance schedule
✓ Much easier than finding new petitioners for each season
Benefits:
✓ Simplified renewal process
✓ Consistent representation
✓ Long-term visa planning
✓ Career continuity
P-1 Success Stories with IGTA
Profile: Professional MMA fighter, UFC veteran, internationally recognized combat sport athlete
Challenge: Wanted independence from UFC to compete in multiple organizations, pursue film opportunities, and start businesses—all requiring agent-based visa flexibility
Evidence:
✓ UFC championship contender
✓ International MMA competition record
✓ Multiple high-profile fights
✓ Global media coverage
✓ Combat sports rankings
✓ Professional athlete credentials
IGTA Filing: Agent-based P-1 petition allowing flexibility across multiple organizations and business ventures
Result: "I used this petitioner service to make a change from the UFC to be more independent. I've used the petitioner service to compete, film on Netflix, and start multiple businesses; all on the same visa petition."
What Francis Can Do Now:
✓ Compete in multiple MMA organizations (not just UFC)
✓ Film documentary and entertainment projects on Netflix
✓ Start and run multiple business ventures in the US
✓ Pursue endorsement deals across industries
✓ Control his own career trajectory
✓ All under one P-1 visa without refiling
Agent-Based Advantage: Without agent-based structure, Francis would be tied to a single promotion and unable to pursue the diverse opportunities that define modern athlete careers.
Profile: Olympic track and field athlete, internationally competitive runner
Challenge: Initially needed P-1 to compete in US track and field, later transitioned to professional role requiring O-1
Evidence:
✓ Olympic competition participation
✓ International track and field meets
✓ National team representation
✓ Athletic rankings and achievements
✓ Competition records
IGTA Filing - Phase 1: P-1 petition for athletic competition in United States
Quote: "I've had the pleasure of using the petitioner service twice. First for my P-1 visa to compete in track in the United States and then second for my O-1 visa to work as a Brand Manager for Brandon Marshall's House of Athlete in Miami."
P-1 Benefits for Maya:
✓ Competed in track and field across US
✓ Multiple meet participation
✓ Training with various organizations
✓ Agent-based flexibility for competition schedule
IGTA Filing - Phase 2: O-1 petition when transitioning to Brand Manager role
Current Role: Brand Manager for Brandon Marshall's House of Athlete in Miami
What Maya's Story Shows:
✓ Agent-based P-1 provided athletic competition flexibility
✓ Same petitioner relationship transitioned smoothly to O-1
✓ Athletes can leverage their competition experience into professional roles
✓ IGTA supports athletes throughout career evolution
✓ From competing athlete to sports business professional
Organizations We've Worked With:
P-1 Filing Questions Answered
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P-1 is for athletes competing at a major international level. O-1 is for athletes at the very top of their sport (Olympic/elite level).
P-1 Standard:
International recognition
Competing at major level
Professional or significant amateur competition
National team or international league participation
O-1 Standard:
Extraordinary ability (top small percentage)
Sustained national or international acclaim
Elite/Olympic level
Recognized as outstanding in sport worldwide
For Most Professional Athletes: P-1 is the appropriate category.
For Elite/Olympic Athletes: O-1 may be more appropriate.
Not sure which? Take our assessment and we'll recommend the right category.
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Yes. Coaches, trainers, and other essential support personnel can apply for P-1S visas.
P-1S Requirements:
They must be essential to your performance
Cannot be replaced by US workers
Required due to long-standing relationship or unique skills
Coming specifically to support you
Cost: $3,000 through IGTA for complete P-1S petition preparation.
Process: We file P-1S petition alongside or after your P-1A petition is approved.
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Unlimited teams with agent-based structure.
Your agent-petitioned P-1 includes an itinerary of competitions that can cover:
Multiple team contracts per season
Tournament participation with various organizations
Exhibition games
Training camps
All-star games or special events
As long as activities fit your "competition itinerary," you can participate without USCIS approval or refiling.
Contrast with Team-Sponsored P-1: If one team petitions for you, you're generally limited to that team unless you arrange complex amendments.
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We can file P-1 for the exact duration needed.
P-1 validity can be:
Specific season length (e.g., 6-month soccer season)
Tournament duration (e.g., 3-month tennis circuit)
Training and competition period
Full year if you have year-round competitions
USCIS grants P-1 based on your itinerary. If your competition schedule is 6 months, we request 6 months (or slightly longer for training/preparation).
Extensions: File extension before season ends if continuing competition.
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Yes. Spouse and children under 21 can apply for P-4 dependent visas.
P-4 Benefits:
Same validity as your P-1
Can attend school in US
Can travel freely in and out of US
P-4 Limitations:
Cannot work in US (spouse needs separate work visa)
Tied to your P-1 status
Cost: $1,000 per family member through IGTA.
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No. You need an itinerary of competitions, not necessarily a single team contract.
Acceptable Documentation:
Team contract (if you have one)
Tournament participation confirmation
League invitation letter
Event schedule showing you'll compete
Agent letter outlining competition plans
Multiple team interest letters
As your agent-petitioner, IGTA can file based on your planned competition schedule, even if specific team contracts aren't finalized.
Advantage: You can file P-1 and then negotiate with teams, rather than being dependent on one team's willingness to sponsor.
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Yes, endorsement deals are compatible with P-1 status.
Allowed:
Equipment endorsements
Sports apparel deals
Commercial appearances related to your sport
Social media sponsored content
Brand ambassador roles
Must Stay Sport-Related: Your primary activity must remain competition. Endorsements should be related to your athletic status.
Agent-based structure makes endorsements easier because you're not restricted by a single team's approval.
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Payment plan option costs $10,000 total (vs $8,000 upfront).
Structure:
Minimum $2,000 per month
Must be paid in full before we file with USCIS
Example: 5 monthly payments of $2,000, then we submit petition
Once complete, we file with USCIS and your case enters government processing.
Best for: Athletes who need budget flexibility but want to secure P-1 filing.
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Your P-1 remains valid even if you're injured and cannot compete temporarily.
P-1 Validity:
Doesn't expire due to injury
You maintain status while recovering
Can resume competition when healthy
Important:
If injury is permanent and you cannot return to competition, your P-1 may not be renewable
If transitioning from athlete to coach/other role, may need to change to different visa category
Consult with us about your specific situation
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Yes, absolutely. Maya Bruney's story shows this path.
Common Transition:
Start with P-1 for athletic competition
Build broader achievements and recognition
Transition to O-1 for non-competition roles (coaching, management, sports business)
Or elevate to O-1 as your athletic achievements reach elite level
IGTA can handle both: We file your P-1 initially, then file O-1 when you're ready to transition.
P-1 vs O-1 for Athletes - Which Is Right?
P-1 VISA
✓ Team/group athletes
✓ International competition level
✓ Significant international recognition
✓ Competing at major level
✓ $8,000 upfront / $10,000 payment plan (IGTA)
✓ Up to 10 years total (1-year increments)
✓ Multiple teams allowed with agent
✓ Good for: Professional athletes
✓ Examples: Professional league players
✓ Lower evidence threshold
O-1B VISA (for athletes)
✓ Individual extraordinary athletes
✓ Top 1% in sport worldwide
✓ Sustained national/international acclaim
✓ Elite/Olympic level
✓ $10,000 upfront / $12,000 payment plan (IGTA)
✓ 3 years renewable unlimited
✓ Multiple employers/endorsements
✓ Good for: Elite/Olympic level athletes
✓ Examples: Olympic medalists
✓ Higher evidence threshold
When to Choose P-1:
✓ You compete professionally internationally
✓ You're part of national team or international league
✓ You have international competition participation
✓ You're at major level but not necessarily top 1% globally
✓ You want to compete for multiple teams
When to Choose O-1:
✓ You're at Olympic or World Championship level
✓ You have sustained international acclaim
✓ You're recognized as one of the best in your sport globally
✓ You have extensive media coverage and awards
✓ You want unlimited renewals (no 10-year cap like P-1)
Not Sure Which?
Take our assessment and we'll evaluate your athletic achievements against both P-1 and O-1 standards, then recommend the best path.
Many athletes: P-1 is sufficient and easier to qualify for. Reserve O-1 for truly elite athletes.
The IGTA Advantage for Athletic Visas
Agent Structure = Career Flexibility Our agent-based P-1 petitions allow you to compete for multiple teams, participate in unlimited tournaments, and maintain complete career flexibility—impossible with team-sponsored petitions.
94% Approval Rate for Athletic Petitions We understand the unique requirements of P-1 visas and present athletic evidence in the most compelling format for USCIS approval.
Sports Visa Specialists Our team includes specialists who focus specifically on athletic and entertainment visas. We speak the language of sports and understand competition schedules.
Understand Athletic Career Needs We know athletes need flexibility to:
✓ Compete for multiple teams per season
✓ Accept tournament invitations
✓ Attend training camps
✓ Pursue endorsements
✓ Pursue endorsements
Coordinate with Leagues, Teams, Organizations We handle all communication with your US teams, leagues, venues, and tournament organizers to gather required documentation.
Peer Consultation Expertise We coordinate with appropriate labor organizations to obtain required peer consultations for P-1 petitions—a complex requirement many firms struggle with.
Long-Term Agent Relationship IGTA remains your agent-petitioner throughout your athletic career, handling all renewals and extensions. Consistent representation makes your visa process smoother.
Success Stories: Francis Ngannou & Maya Bruney We've worked with world-class athletes including UFC fighters and Olympic competitors, understanding the highest levels of athletic achievement.
Transparent Pricing $10,000 upfront or $12,000 payment plan for complete P-1 filing. No hidden fees. Add-ons clearly listed.
Filed Within 30 Days Once we begin preparation, we file your petition with USCIS within 30 days, keeping you on track for competition schedules.
Trusted By World-Class Athletes
Featured Athletes:
Francis Ngannou - MMA Champion "I used this petitioner service to make a change from the UFC to be more independent. I've used the petitioner service to compete, film on Netflix, and start multiple businesses; all on the same visa petition."
Maya Bruney - Olympian "I've had the pleasure of using the petitioner service twice. First for my P-1 visa to compete in track in the United States and then second for my O-1 visa to work as a Brand Manager for Brandon Marshall's House of Athlete in Miami."
Join world-class athletes like Francis Ngannou and Maya Bruney who chose IGTA for their P-1 petition. Whether you're a professional athlete, Olympic competitor, or member of an internationally recognized entertainment group—we file visas that give you career freedom.
If you have international competition or performance experience, you may be ready to file. Take our assessment and we'll evaluate your athletic or entertainment history within 48 hours.
Ready to Compete in the United States?
Pricing Reminder:
✓ Upfront Payment: $8,000
✓ Payment Plan: $10,000
What's Included:
Agent-based Visa petition and the procurement of world class Visa work on the Petition
✓ Multiple team/venue freedom
✓ Unlimited tournament participation
✓ Complete petition preparation
✓ Peer consultation coordination
✓ One RFE response included
✓ 94% approval rate
✓ Filed within 30 days
✓ Multiple teams allowed
✓ Touring flexibility
✓ Compete for unlimited organizations
✓ Agent manages your career