Question: Based on this profile, is this athlete eligible for an O-1 or P-1 visa

[OandPVisas]

Yes — this athlete can credibly qualify for a P-1A visa, and that is the cleanest route right now.

Why the résumé satisfies the P-1A standard

Under 8 CFR § 214.2(p)(3) an individual athlete must show “international recognition,” documented by any two of seven evidentiary categories. The fighter’s record can reasonably hit at least three:

Because he will be entering the U.S. to compete (not to coach or give seminars), the purpose requirement is also met; P-1 is explicitly for athletes “coming temporarily … solely for the purpose of performing at a specific athletic competition”

Add a U.S. petitioner (team, promoter, or agent) and an itinerary of IBJJF, ADCC Trials, and Fight-to-Win events to round out the package.

Why an O-1A is premature

An O-1A requires either one major international title (e.g., ADCC World gold) or evidence meeting 3 of 8 more subjective criteria. His current accolades are impressive but borderline for three O-1 buckets—USCIS officers often dismiss medals below world-championship level The P-1 and O-1 Visa Pr…The P-1 and O-1 Visa Pr…. Unless he soon captures a world-level title or gains substantial media coverage, the O-1A would be an uphill battle.

Filing tips for the P-1A petition

1. Event itinerary – List 12-18 months of ADCC Trials, IBJJF Opens, and pro-card superfights; highlight “international reputation” of each show.

2. Consultation letter – Obtain a favorable advisory from the U.S. BJJ Federation or USA Judo (recognized peer organization).

3. Media packet – Include international press clippings and ranking tables to prove worldwide audience.

4. Expert letters – Use at least two: an ADCC official and a distinguished black-belt coach, each detailing why his purple-belt success predicts elite potential.

5. Timeline – Target premium processing to secure the decision within 15 days if event dates are close.

Bottom line

The athlete’s competition résumé already covers multiple P-1 evidentiary prongs and he is entering strictly to compete, making the P-1A the appropriate—and most winnable—classification today. Pursue an O-1A only after securing higher-tier international titles or broader media traction.

[Milanos Wilkins]

Thank you so much for the response!

This athlete is seeking some clarifications to ensure a clear and reliable pathway for whichever U.S. visa best suits his situation. He has the following questions:

1. Definition of Coaching

What exactly qualifies as “coaching”? Does this mean he cannot teach a class or assist a main instructor?

2. Prize Money under P-1A

Under the P-1A visa, is it correct that athletes are fully allowed to receive prize money from competitions?

3. Sponsorship and P-1A Eligibility

How does sponsorship factor into the P-1A visa? Is the athlete allowed to receive compensation or products for representing a brand? If not, does it make a difference if the sponsoring brand is based outside the United States?

4. Side Gigs for Financial Sustainability

We’ve heard that P-1A athletes may be allowed to take on side jobs or gigs since income from competition alone might not be sufficient. Is this true? If so, are there any restrictions or limitations?

5. Participation in Multiple Combat Sports

The athlete is also interested in participating in other combat sports such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and MMA. Would he be permitted to compete in all of these under a single P-1A visa? For example, could he use the P-1A for MMA while also fighting in other disciplines under the same umbrella?

6. Path to O-1A Based on Achievement

If the athlete were to win a world championship, such as the IBJJF Worlds, would that accomplishment potentially qualify him for the O-1A visa?

Any guidance or clarification from those familiar with athlete visas would be greatly appreciated!

• This reply was modified 3 weeks, 4 days ago by  Milanos Wilkins.
• This reply was modified 3 weeks, 4 days ago by  Milanos Wilkins.
• This reply was modified 3 weeks, 4 days ago by  Milanos Wilkins.