P-2 Nonimmigrant Visa
United States
Last updated: December 30, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$205
3-10 months
High
About this Visa
The P-2 visa lets you work as a musician, dancer, actor, or other performer in the US. You perform at concerts, theaters, and events while earning money. This visa requires a formal agreement between your home country's artists and a US organization—like the American Federation of Musicians for Canadians. You can perform at multiple venues. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can come with you, but they cannot work. This visa requires an exchange program and proof that you have comparable skills to US performers in your field.
Key Benefits
- Work without job restrictions
- Earn money from multiple employers
- Bring spouse and unmarried children under 21
- Travel freely between US and home country
- Extend stay for years
- Live in US during visa period
- Perform at multiple venues
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Part of official exchange program with signed bilateral agreement
- Skills must match US performers in your field
- No criminal record
- Plan to return home when visa ends
- At least one performance every 60 days required
- Must earn minimum wage for your position ($150 for leader, $100 for others)
- Must maintain foreign residence
Financial Requirement
Leader: minimum $150 USD per performance. Band member: minimum $100 USD per performance. Signed contracts showing earnings required.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for 6+ months beyond your stay
- Exchange agreementSigned contract between your country's artists organization and US organization
- Labor union approvalWritten consent from AFM or equivalent music/theater union
- Work contractsSigned contracts for all performances showing dates, venues, and compensation
- Performance itineraryComplete schedule with dates, cities, and venues
- Proof of comparable skillsReviews, recordings, experience, awards demonstrating skill level equal to US performers
- Organization membershipProof of membership in your country's artists organization
- Employer statementLetter from organization describing the exchange program and your role
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.