Extraordinary ability and talent visas
We have represented artists, athletes, and professionals for more than a decade, from Grammy Award winners to emerging performers on their first U.S. tour. These categories reward a strong record, presented well, and that is what this firm was built on.
Nashville is Music City, and talent visas are where this firm began. We are immigration lawyers for musicians, performers, athletes, and professionals at the top of their field, and for the agents, labels, and companies who bring them here: O-1 and P visas, L-1 transfers, and EB-1A, EB-1C, and National Interest Waiver green cards.
O-1 extraordinary ability
For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics, or extraordinary achievement in film and television. We build the evidence file, secure the union or peer consultation letter, and structure the itinerary.
P visas for groups and athletes
For members of entertainment groups recognized internationally as outstanding for a sustained and substantial period. Also P-1 athletes, P-2 reciprocal exchange, and P-3 culturally unique programs.
L-1 intracompany transfers
L-1A for managers and executives and L-1B for specialized knowledge employees transferring from a related company abroad to a U.S. office. You generally need one continuous year with the company abroad in the last three years.
EB-1A extraordinary ability green card
Permanent residence for people with sustained national or international acclaim in their field, with no employer sponsor needed. The standard is substantially higher than the O-1, and we are candid with clients about when the record is ready and when it is not.
EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
For professionals with an advanced degree or exceptional ability whose work has substantial merit and national importance. The waiver removes the need for a job offer and labor certification, so you can petition for yourself.
EB-1C multinational managers and executives
A green card for managers and executives transferred by a related company abroad, often the next step after an L-1A. No labor certification is required.
Agents, sponsors, and touring
We work with agents, labels, and promoters on multi-employer petitions, tour itineraries, and last-minute premium processing when a date is on the line.
How a case works with us
- Choose the categoryWe compare the O-1, P, L-1, EB-1, and NIW options against your record and plans, and set the timeline, including the itinerary for touring artists.
- Build the evidenceAwards, press, publications, charts and sales figures, contracts, and letters from experts, organized to meet the criteria for the category.
- Consultation letterO and P petitions need a written advisory opinion from an appropriate union or peer group, such as the American Federation of Musicians or SAG-AFTRA. We request it early.
- File and travelWe file with USCIS, use premium processing when a date is close, and prepare the artist for the visa interview abroad.
Common questions
What is the difference between an O-1 and a P-1 visa?
The O-1 is for an individual with extraordinary ability or achievement. The P-1 is for members of an entertainment group recognized internationally as outstanding, and for internationally recognized athletes. Essential support crew can come on O-2 or P-1S visas.
Do I need a union letter for an O-1 visa?
USCIS requires a written advisory opinion from an appropriate peer group or labor organization, such as the American Federation of Musicians for musicians or SAG-AFTRA for actors. If no appropriate group exists, the petition explains why. We request the letter early because it can take time.
Can I get an O-1 if I am not famous?
The O-1 does not require fame, but it does require evidence. For artists the standard is distinction: a high level of achievement shown through things like reviews, awards, lead roles, commercial success, or recognition from experts in the field. Emerging artists often qualify when the evidence is presented well.
Can one petition cover a whole tour?
Yes. An agent can file one petition for engagements with several venues or employers, as long as it includes the itinerary and the contracts or terms for each date.
What is the difference between EB-1A and the National Interest Waiver?
EB-1A is for people with sustained national or international acclaim, shown through a major award or at least three of ten evidence criteria. The EB-2 National Interest Waiver is for people with an advanced degree or exceptional ability whose work has substantial merit and national importance. Neither needs an employer sponsor.
General information, not legal advice for your case. Every situation is different; a consultation confirms what applies to you.
Forms and categories we handle here
Your attorneyMichael SmallboneLicensed in Tennessee. Adjunct Professor of Immigration Law, Nashville School of LawReady to talk to an attorney?
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