P Visa is a Hole in One for Pro Golfer The U.S. has been at the forefront of international athletics for decades. Each Olympiad and international competition consistently shows the U.S. at or near the top of the medal count or leader board. These successes attract athletes from all over the world to come to our country in order to train and compete in their respective sports. In order for a non-citizen to come to the U.S. to train and compete for prize money, however, they must first obtain a P visa and prove their internationally renowned status. The P‐1A Visa for an Internationally Recognized Athlete allows high level athletes the opportunity to live, train and compete in the U.S. “to perform at a specific athletic competition as an athlete, individually or as part of a group or team, at an internationally recognized level of performance” (See 8 CFR Sec. 214.2(p) for more information on P Visa classifications).

We had the privilege of assisting our client, Tom, a professional golfer from the UK sponsored by an American golf tour, obtain P‐1A status. His petition contained evidence of his participation in professional competitions, winnings and high finishes, letters of support from professional golfers and coaches, and an explanation of the events and activities Tom intended to pursue in the U.S. Tom had a long history of great finishes and no shortage of professionals willing to attest to his skills and ability on the golf course. After submitting his application to USCIS at the end of the year, Tom received the approval of his visa in three weeks, and is now training and competing in tournaments around the country to improve his game, and aim to compete in the PGA.