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The Jiu-Jitsu Visa is a special visa category in the United States designed for athletes, coaches, and Jiu-Jitsu professionals who seek to develop their skills, compete, and teach in one of the most advanced sports environments in the world.
This visa represents a unique opportunity for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu professionals to share their expertise and contribute to the growing martial arts community in the U.S.
P-1A Visa:
For individually recognized athletes or teams that wish to compete in the U.S.
O-1A Visa:
For individuals with extraordinary abilities in martial arts, including Jiu-Jitsu.
These visa categories are designed to welcome and recognize exceptional talent in the world of martial arts.
P-1A Visa:
Requires the athlete or team to demonstrate a high level of achievement in the sport, proven by participation and success in prominent competitions.
O-1A Visa:
Requires the demonstration of extraordinary ability and international recognition in Jiu-Jitsu.
It begins with the completion of Form I-129 and must be submitted by a Petitioner. There are several ways to submit the Petition, depending on the options and structures the professional will have in the United States. It is always important to review the options with an immigration attorney.
It is always important to provide the attorney with as much information as possible about the athlete’s career, including awards, work history, and media coverage. The attorney needs the professional’s complete portfolio to assess the qualifications for the O1A visa.
If the professional is applying outside the United States, after the petition is approved, the athlete must apply for the O1A visa at the U.S. Consulate to enter the country with the correct category and visa. Remember that professionals should be prepared for the interview, as the consulate may assess the artist’s extraordinary ability.
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Regarding the application requirements, there are essential documents that cannot be missing, such as a signed form, payment of the immigration fee, and a work contract. Without these completed requirements, immigration may return the case or even deny the application.
In addition to these formal requirements, immigration requires that the immigrant submit documents to meet at least 3 criteria established by law. It is always important to check with the immigration attorney to determine the best strategy for the case.
But it is always important to send the following to the attorney:
1. Letters of recommendation from industry professionals, critics, or recognized experts in the field.
2. Contracts, past and future
3. Performance itinerary for the coming years;
4. Documents of salaries received;
5. Awards and Recognitions: Any national or international award or honor received,
6. Press Coverage: Articles, reviews, or interviews in reputable publications
Opportunity to compete in high-level tournaments and championships in the U.S.
Possibility to train in renowned academies with prominent professionals.
Chance to teach and promote Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, enriching American cultural and sports diversity.
O1A visas are generally granted for periods aligned with contracts or specific competitions, up to a maximum of 3 years, with extension options.
P1A visas are generally granted for periods aligned with contracts and specific competitions, up to 5 years, withe extension options.
Spouses and children under 21 can accompany the Jiu-Jitsu practitioner under the P-4 or O-3 visa categories, providing family support during their journey in the U.S.
Fees associated with filing Form I-129 and other procedural costs related to the visa application.
Due to the complexity of the process, the assistance of a specialized attorney is advisable, with costs varying based on the specificity of the case and the experience of the legal professional.
All of an athlete’s performances must be coordinated with the attorney to avoid status violations. The O1 visa offers some flexibility in performances, but if the professional is acting as an athlete, it’s important to continue competing and performing according to what was stated in the Initial Petition.
The P-1A visa allows the athlete to receive compensation only through the team, sponsors, and prizes, without being able to receive any other benefits. The O-1 visa, on the other hand, offers some flexibility in performance and is not as limiting as the P-1A. It is important to always consult with an attorney experienced in sports immigration.
Ready to start your immigration journey or looking for legal orientation? Get in touch with Ricci Law, we’ll help you reach your American dream with confidence and success.
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