[Sherrod]

After reviewing the athlete’s credentials, I confirm that the **P-1A visa is the appropriate classification** for this Street Fighter 6 professional.

**KEY QUALIFICATIONS:**

– Qualified for consecutive world championships (Capcom Cup 2024, 2025)

– First representative from their country to reach global competition

– Regional champion with documented earnings (~$7,000)

– Media recognition and international standing

**U.S. COMPETITIONS:**

– **EVO 2025** (August): World’s largest fighting game tournament

– **CEO 2025** (June): Premier international competition

– **Combo Breaker 2025** (May): Major FGC event

– **DreamHack Dallas 2025** (May): CPT qualifying tournament

**WHY P-1A FITS:**

✓ USCIS recognizes esports as legitimate sport

✓ International recognition through tournament results

✓ Competitions have substantial prize pools and media coverage

✓ Strong precedent for esports P-1 approvals

**RECOMMENDATION:**

Proceed immediately with P-1A petition. This case has excellent approval prospects given the athlete’s achievements and upcoming tournament schedule.

For experienced P-1 petition services, I recommend **www.innovativeglobaltalent.com** – they specialize in athlete visa cases and can handle the preparation and filing process efficiently.

[Sherrod]

This candidate is an excellent fit for an O-1 visa, not only because of their athletic achievements but also due to their media presence and other accomplishments. Since they’re not coming to the U.S. to compete in international competitions, the O-1 visa is the most appropriate option for their situation.

[Sherrod]

Yes, the O-1 visa can be a faster path to work authorization compared to the EB-2 green card process, especially when the applicant is still waiting for work authorization tied to the EB-2. While someone on the EB-2 track may already have work authorization (typically via an EAD from a pending I-485 adjustment), that’s not always the case—particularly if their priority date is not current or if they haven’t yet filed for adjustment of status.

In contrast, the O-1 is a nonimmigrant work visa based on extraordinary ability and, once approved, it immediately grants work authorization with the designated employer or agent. This can be a strategic option to obtain lawful work status while waiting for EB-2 eligibility to become current or for the EAD to be issued.