US raises checks for P-1 and O-1 visa applications, targeting artists & athletes ahead of FIFA World Cup

US immigration authorities are increasing scrutiny of P-1 and O-1 visa petitions. A growing number of applications for artists, musicians, athletes and entertainment groups are receiving detailed Requests for Evidence. The key change is a new demand for signed contracts with every venue listed on a touring schedule, a requirement that was not consistently enforced before.

"We are hearing a new trend in USCIS adjudications targeting P-1 and O-1 visa petitions for artists, musicians, athletes, and entertainment acts," Rajiv Khanna, Managing Attorney, Immigration.com, said.

The O-1 visa is a work visa for individuals who can show extraordinary ability in fields such as arts, athletics, science, business or education. It requires evidence of national or international recognition and proof that the person will work in their area of achievement in the US.


The P-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for athletes, entertainment groups and performers who come to the US to take part in specific competitions, events or tours. It covers groups with an established reputation and athletes performing individually or as part of a team.

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"There has been a significant uptick in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) demanding contracts between the petitioner and every venue listed on a touring itinerary. Previously, many successful petitions relied on promotional materials and employer-agent agreements, with venue contracts often omitted due to logistical difficulty and venues' reluctance to announce shows before visa approval.," Khanna added.

This shift has created concern across the entertainment and sports industries that depend on advance planning and flexible tour arrangements. For many years, petitions were accepted with promotional materials and an employer-agent agreement. Venue contracts were often missing because shows are usually confirmed only after visa approval. Petitioners say the updated approach makes the process more rigid and difficult to manage.

The development signals a sharper interpretation of existing rules by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. It raises the burden of proof for performers seeking entry under work-based categories and affects tours of all scales, especially those filed through agencies.

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Attorneys and booking agents report a significant rise in RFEs asking for binding agreements for each performance date. They warn that the absence of these documents could lead to further delays or possible denials.

Stakeholders note that the practice may reshape how international performers plan US travel, making early commitments from venues essential. They add that this trend may continue unless the agency clarifies or adjusts its expectations.

Impact on upcoming global sporting events

The tightening of visa reviews comes as the US prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026 with Canada and Mexico. The event will be the largest edition of the tournament, featuring 48 teams and matches spread across major American cities. Organizers expect a significant inflow of players, coaching staff, medical teams, analysts and operations officials who typically travel on short-term work authorizations.

Sports bodies rely heavily on the P-1 visa category for athletes entering the country for international competitions. Any rise in Requests for Evidence or additional documentation demands may place pressure on national federations that must coordinate large groups of athletes under fixed timelines. Teams often finalize their travel plans and support staff close to the tournament, and delays could disrupt training camps, pre-event friendlies or commercial obligations scheduled in the US.

Teams also depend on fast approvals for replacement players when injuries occur. Increased scrutiny may complicate those plans, especially if last-minute petitions face longer processing times.