P-2 Visa
The complexities of immigration law can often feel like a daunting endeavor. One such complexity lies in understanding the various types of temporary work visas available for individuals wishing to work in the United States.
Artists and athletes are essential to healthy cultural exchange. The global community benefits greatly from the work of each country’s greatest thinkers and performers.
Here, at Esani & Momin, P.C., we specialize in such immigration matters, demystifying the process and providing legal guidance to help you make informed decisions.
What is a P-2 Visa?
The P-2 Visa is a non-immigrant temporary work visa, specifically designed for artists or entertainers, individually or as part of a group, who wish to perform under a reciprocal exchange program between an organization in the U.S. and another nation. This visa is fitting for individuals whose home country has an established exchange agreement allowing reciprocal, temporary migration of artists and entertainers.
How to Obtain a P-2 Visa
Securing a P-2 Visa requires certain critical steps. The U.S. employer or sponsoring organization must submit Form I-129, Petition for Non-Immigrant Worker, to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application should include supporting documentation that proves the existence of the reciprocal exchange agreement, the applicant’s qualifications, and the details of the agreed-upon employment.
Either the U.S. labor group that negotiated the exchange agreement, the sponsoring organization or the U.S. employer must file the petition. P-2 applicants may be asked to provide the following:
- “A written consultation by an appropriate labor organization” (USCIS).
- “A copy of the formal reciprocal exchange agreement between the U.S. organization(s) sponsoring the alien and the organization(s) in a foreign country which will receive the U.S. artist or entertainer” (USCIS).
- A letter from the sponsoring organization describing the exchange which is to take place.
- Proof that the non-immigrant visa petitioner and the U.S. artist or entertainer have “comparable skills and that the terms and conditions of employment are similar” (USCIS).
- Proof of the agreement between the organizations involved in the exchange.
Processing times for P-2 Visas can vary. Typically, the USCIS processing time can take up to 90 days. However, for an additional fee, premium processing can expedite the application review to a 15-day window. While this may not guarantee visa approval, it certainly accelerates the process.
Cost of P-2 Visa
Obtaining a P-2 Visa involves several fees, including the I-129 petition filing fee and potential premium processing fee. As of the latest information, the base filing fee for Form I-129 is $460. If opting for premium processing, an additional fee would be required.
Our P-2 Visa Attorney Can Help
Acquiring a P-2 Visa involves traversing a complex legal landscape. Our knowledgeable attorneys at Esani & Momin, P.C., are well-versed in immigration law and the intricacies of the P-2 Visa process. Our professional approach ensures that your application stands the best possible chance of success. Contact Esani & Momin, P.C. today and let us empower you to navigate the P-2 Visa process with confidence and ease.
If you have questions or would like more information about the P-2 Visa please contact the skilled attorneys at the Law firm of Esani & Momin.
