The P-2 visa is available for foreign artists, individual entertainers or entertainment groups entering the United States under a reciprocal exchange program. A qualified P-2 visa applicant is required to have a foreign residence of which they have no intention of leaving or abandoning.
P-2 Visa Reciprocal Exchange Agreements
In order for applicants to be considered for a P-2 visa, they must be under one of the following four qualifying reciprocal exchange agreements.
- The American Federation of Musicians (U.S.) and the American Federation of Musicians (Canada)
- The Actor’s Equity Association (U.S.) and the Canadian Actor’s Equity Association
- The Actor’s Equity Association (U.S.) and the British Actor’s Equity Association
- The International Council of AirShows and the Canadian Air Show Association
Other reciprocal exchange agreements may be submitted and approved through review which determines if regulatory requirements are met.
Petition Documentation Requirements
A P-2 visa petition is filed within the Petition For A Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129) and must be filed by the applicant’s United States employer, agent or foreign employer within 1 year of the proposed employment opportunity. The following documents are required to file a P-2 visa petition:
- A formal copy of the reciprocal exchange agreement between the United States organization and the foreign organization which will sponsor the applicant
- A formal and written statement from the organization sponsoring the applicant describing the reciprocal exchange
- Proof of evidence of negotiation with a United States organization during the reciprocal exchange of foreign and United States artists or entertainers
- Proof of evidence which shows equivalent skills between those involved in the reciprocal exchange agreement
Speak To An Experienced Nonimmigrant Visa Attorney
If you are a foreign artist or entertainer seeking entrance into the United States with a P-2 visa, make sure to speak to an experienced nonimmigrant visa attorney prior to the application process. For more information, please give the Law Offices of Kermit A. Monge a call at 703.273.5500 or request a consultation online.