What is the P-2 Visa?
The P-2 visa is for artists and entertainers coming to the U.S. through a reciprocal exchange program between an American organization and one in another country. This visa applies to both individual artists and groups who are part of these cultural exchange agreements.
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Examples of Professions That Qualify for the P-2 Visa:
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Musicians & Bands
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Dancers
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Theater Performers
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Comedians & Spoken Word Artists
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Film & TV Production Crews
What are the P-2 Visa Benefits?
1-Year Stay + Renewals
The P-2 Visa allows a stay of up to one year in the U.S., with the option to renew annually. This is ideal for artists with extended tours​​​​.
Travel Flexibility
P-2 Visa holders can enter and exit the U.S. freely during the visa's validity, accommodating international schedules and performances
Family Accommodation
Dependents of P-2 Visa holders can join them in the U.S. and are eligible to attend school, offering family stability during the visa period​​​​.
Support Personnel Eligibility
Essential support staff for artists and entertainers can also obtain the P-1S Visa, ensuring support for performers.
Cultural Exchange Opportunity
This visa enriches cultural diversity of the U.S. and partner countries​​​​.
Global Reputation Enhancement
P-2 Visa elevates global reputation, offering international athletes a career advancement.
What Documentation do you Need for a P-2 Visa?
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker)
Evidence of artists with comparable skills
DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form)
Evidence of the formal reciprocal exchange agreement
Passport
Statement from the sponsoring organization
A written consultation by an appropriate labor organisation
Itinerary with event dates and locations
P-2 Visa Requirements for Artists
For a P-2 visa, you must be an artist entering the United States through a government recognized reciprocal exchange program. These are the following:
British Actors
Actor’s Equity Association (U.S.) and the British Actors’ Equity Association
Actor’s Equity Association (U.S.) and the Canadian Actors’ Equity Association
Canada Musicians
The American Federation of Musicians (U.S.) and the American Federation of Musicians (Canada)
Canada Actors
Performance Role
The Alliance of Canadian Cinema Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) and the Screen Actor Guild (SAG-AFTRA).
Canada Air Shows
The International Council of Air Shows and the Canadian Air Show Association
Other Countries
If a reciprocal agreement is submitted other than these five, USCIS will review the agreement to determine its eligibility.
P-2 Visa Application Process
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
Meet with an attorney to discuss your achievements and business skills.
Gathering Documentation
Collect evidence such as contracts, employment history, and evidence of your role.
Sponsorship and Petition Filing
Prepare and file necessary forms (Form I-129 and I-129 O/P Supplement) with USCIS.
Premium Processing (Optional)
Offer assistance with premium processing for expedited review (decision within 15 days).
Visa Application at a U.S. Consulate
We guide you through the DS-160 form and interview preparation.
Visa Approval and Entry into the U.S.
We provide support during your transition to ensure compliance with visa conditions.
1. Can I apply for a P-2 visa on my own, or do I need a sponsor? You cannot apply for a P-2 visa on your own. A U.S. labor organization or sponsoring employer must file the petition on your behalf, proving that you are part of a qualified reciprocal exchange program.
2. Can I perform at multiple venues with the P-2 visa? Yes! As long as the performances are part of the approved exchange program, you can perform at different venues. Your itinerary should be included in your visa petition to show where and when you'll be performing.
3. How long can I stay in the U.S. as a P-2 visa holder? The initial stay is granted for the duration of the exchange program or performance schedule, up to 1 year. Extensions may be granted in 1-year increments if additional performances or activities require a longer stay.
