P4 Visa for Family of P1, P2, or P3 Holders

A P-4 visa is a nonimmigrant (temporary) visa to the United States. It may be issued to dependents of P-1, P-2, and P-3 visa holders. Dependents include spouses and unmarried children under 21.

There is no cap on the number of visas that can be issued under this category each year, nor on the number of nationals of a particular country that can be admitted to the United States under this category.

P-4 Visa Requirements

Most of the eligibility questions in your visa application process will be asked of your spouse or parent -- whoever is getting the principal P-1, P-2, or P-3 visa. That person will, for starters, need an offer of work from a U.S. employer. P-1 visas are for outstanding athletes, athletic teams, and entertainment companies. P-2 visas are for artists or entertainers participating in reciprocal exchange programs. P-3 visas are for artists or entertainers who will be perfoming, teaching, interpreting, developing, or coaching in a program that's culturally unique.

To get a P-4 visa, you will primarily need to prove your family relationship to the primary visa holder. Be aware, however, that you, like anyone, can be found inadmissible to the U.S., for example if you appear to pose a health or security threat.

P-4 Visa Fees and Costs

After the primary visa holder has received USCIS approval of the initial visa petition (which the employer will in all likelihood pay for), you'll most likely need to to go apply for your visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. The latest fees owing there can be found on the "Fees for Visa Services" page of the U.S. State Department website.

P-4 Visa Application Forms and Documents

The application for a P-4 visa must be made on Form DS-160, which you'll need to prepare and submit online. In addition, you'll need to bring the following documents to your consular interview (or mail them, depending on your local consulate's procedures):

• Proof of family relationship, such as marriage certificate or birth certificate.
• Copy of the spouse/parent’s Notice of Action Form I-797.
• Valid passport for each person.
• One passport-style photo for each person.

If your application is being made separately from that of the primary visa applicant, it must additionally be accompanied by:

• Copy of the spouse/parent’s passport having the P-1, P-2, or P-3 visa.

If approved, the U,S. embassy or consulate will issue the P-4 visa on your passport.

P-4 Visa Limitations

Here are some things you should know in order to enjoy the benefits of your visa without violating its terms.

• A P-4 visa holder will be admitted and allowed to remain in the United States for as long as the primary visa holder, i.e. the spouse/parent having the P-1, P-2 or P-3 visa maintains lawful status.
• P-4 visa holders are not permitted to accept employment in the United States. If you intend to seek employment, you must change your status.

P-4 Visa Extension Rules

You can stay in the United States for as long as your spouse or parent with the P-1, P-2 or P-3 visa is permitted to stay. Extensions in increments of one year may be granted if an extension is granted to the primary visa holder.

P-4 Visa Possibilities for Conversion to Permanent Residence

While there is no direct path from P-4 status to U.S. permanent residence (a green card), this visa does not require you to have the intent to return to your home country. If you become eligible for a U.S. green card, you are allowed to apply for adjustment of status and become a lawful permanent resident.