Green card

Nonimmigrant visa

National Interest Waiver

Internationally Recognized Athletes

Entrepreneurs, Researchers, Physicians, Industry experts, Innovators, STEM professionals

Professional athletes, Coaches, Sports instructors, Athletic trainers, Professional gamers, Sports officials, Athletic teams

• You must hold an advanced degree (master's or higher), possess a bachelor's degree plus five years of progressive work experience, or demonstrate exceptional ability in your field by showing at least 3 of 6 requirements, such as maintaining membership in professional associations and earning recognition for your contributions to your industry from peers or professional organizations.

• Demonstrate that you will work on a proposed endeavor with substantial merit and national importance, and provide evidence that you are well-positioned to advance this work.

• Demonstrate international recognition with significant sports achievements.

• Participate in top-level events or competitions.

• Enter the U.S. to compete or participate in high-profile sports events.

• Provides complete flexibility to work, live, and study in the U.S.

• Flexible requirements, making it suitable for a variety of profiles.

• Does not require employer sponsorship or a job offer, providing significant independence.

• Eliminates the need for the lengthy labor certification process.

• Facilitates entry for top athletes to compete in the U.S.

• Simplifies the process with team petitions for groups.

• Extended stay periods accommodate individual athletes' competition schedules.

• Flexible sponsorship options, including sponsorship by an agent—an individual or entity designated to act on your behalf—instead of a single payroll employer. This allows you to work for multiple employers and change employers easily.

• Requires a high burden of proof to demonstrate both national interest and exceptional ability.

• USCIS has broad discretion in deciding whether your permanent residency aligns with the national interest.

• Requires strict documentation of international recognition and significant achievements.

• Spouses and dependents do not receive work authorization.

• Renewal and extension processes require proof of continued eligibility and upcoming competitions.

Not required

Required

Permanent residency

Up to 5 years for individuals and up to 1 year for teams¹.

Every 10 years

Up to 10 years for individuals and in 1-year increments for teams².

24-30 months¹

3-6 months

45 business days

15 business days

Yes

No

¹Applicants from India, China, or Mexico may experience longer wait times.

^{1, 2}Validity and renewable options depend on the specific classification of the athlete or team.