Visas for elite athletes, coaches, and the people behind them.

Frequently asked

Common questions

O-1 or P-1 — which visa fits an athlete?

It depends on how your achievements are recognized. The O-1A fits athletes who can show sustained national or international acclaim — awards, elite rankings, or major-media coverage. The P-1A fits internationally recognized professional athletes coming to compete at an internationally recognized level of performance. We will look at your record honestly and recommend the category your evidence can actually win.

What does "internationally recognized" mean for a P-1A petition?

USCIS looks for proof of a significant international reputation: international rankings, results in major international competitions, contracts with professional teams or leagues, and coverage in major media. Rankings and records matter, and how they are maintained while a case is pending matters too — we have won P-1A cases by explaining exactly that.

Can an athlete get a green card, or only a temporary visa?

Yes. Athletes at the top of their field can self-petition for permanent residence under the EB-1A extraordinary ability category, without an employer sponsor. We have taken an elite athlete all the way from an O-1A visa to an approved EB-1A green card — and later helped his wife, also an elite athlete, with her immigration.

My O-1 or P-1 petition was denied. Can anything be done?

A denial is not the end. We review the denial notice and the evidence that was filed, identify where the case fell short, and advise honestly whether a refiling, an appeal, or a different category gives you the better chance. Athletes coming off a denial are welcome to request a review of their case.