How to Apply for the P-4 Visa for Spouses and Children

The P-4 visa is a U.S. visa designed for dependents of P visa holders. This visa allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age to accompany or join a family member who holds a P visa (P-1, P-2, or P-3) while they perform, compete, or engage in cultural or athletic activities in the United States. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the P-4 visa, including eligibility, application requirements, and benefits for family members.

Table of Contents

1. What is the P-4 Visa?

The P-4 visa is a dependent visa for family members of individuals who hold P visas, including:

P-1 Visa: For internationally recognized athletes and entertainers.
P-2 Visa: For artists and entertainers participating in reciprocal exchange programs.
P-3 Visa: For artists and entertainers in culturally unique programs.

The P-4 visa allows eligible family members to live in the U.S. for the same duration as the primary P visa holder, but it does not grant work authorization.

2. Who is Eligible for the P-4 Visa?

The following individuals qualify for the P-4 visa:

Spouse of the P Visa Holder: The legal spouse of a P visa holder.
Unmarried Children Under 21: Children of the P visa holder who are unmarried and under the age of 21.

Note: Other family members, such as parents or siblings, are not eligible for the P-4 visa and would need to apply for a visitor visa (B-2) or other visa type to enter the U.S.

3. Rights and Limitations of the P-4 Visa

P-4 visa holders can enjoy specific benefits, including the right to live and study in the U.S. However, they must also abide by certain limitations:

Benefits

Residence: P-4 visa holders can live in the U.S. for the same duration as the primary P visa holder.
Study: Dependents can enroll in school or pursue academic studies while in the U.S.
Duration of Stay: P-4 visa validity matches the validity of the primary P visa, including any extensions granted.

Limitations

No Work Authorization: P-4 visa holders are not permitted to work in the U.S. They would need to obtain their own work visa or other form of authorization to engage in employment.
Dependent Status Only: The P-4 visa remains valid only as long as the primary P visa holder maintains valid P visa status.

4. Required Documents for P-4 Visa Application

To apply for the P-4 visa, applicants must gather a range of documents that prove their relationship to the primary P visa holder and support their eligibility for the visa. Here is a list of commonly required documents:

Passport: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S.
Completed DS-160 Form: The DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) form is required for each P-4 visa applicant. Print the confirmation page to bring to the interview.
Visa Application Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the non-refundable visa application fee.
Photographs: Passport-size photographs that meet U.S. visa photo requirements.
Proof of Relationship to the P Visa Holder:
- Marriage Certificate: For spouses.
- Birth Certificate: For children, showing the P visa holder as a parent.
Copy of P Visa Holder’s Documentation:
- P Visa Approval Notice (Form I-797): Evidence that the primary visa holder is legally in the U.S. on a P visa.
- Copy of Primary Visa Holder’s Passport and Visa: If available, to show proof of their status.

Note: Additional documents may be requested, such as proof of residence in the home country, if the consular officer requires further verification.

5. P-4 Visa Application Process

The application process for the P-4 visa follows the standard nonimmigrant visa application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form

Each dependent applying for a P-4 visa must complete Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) on the U.S. Department of State’s website. After completing the form, print and save the confirmation page to bring to the visa interview.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, which is typically $160 USD for P visas. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

Step 3: Schedule the Visa Interview

Schedule a visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. P-4 visa applicants must attend an interview unless they qualify for an age-related exemption.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Collect all required documents, including the DS-160 confirmation page, passport, photographs, proof of relationship to the P visa holder, and any additional documentation specified by the embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview

Attend the visa interview at the scheduled time. During the interview, consular officers will ask questions to verify the relationship with the P visa holder and ensure eligibility for the P-4 visa.

Note: Visa issuance is at the discretion of the consular officer, and additional documentation may be requested to confirm eligibility.

6. Duration of Stay and Extension of P-4 Visa

The duration of the P-4 visa is typically tied to the validity of the primary P visa. If the primary P visa holder extends their stay, the P-4 visa holder can also apply for an extension.

Steps to Extend a P-4 Visa

File Form I-539: The primary visa holder’s dependents must file Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Provide Supporting Documents: Include proof of relationship, primary visa holder’s status, and reasons for the extension.

7. Changing Status from P-4 to Another Visa Type

If a P-4 visa holder wishes to work or change their visa status, they must apply for a different visa category. Common options include:

F-1 Student Visa: For children who wish to study full-time in the U.S. and do not meet the requirements of the P-4 visa.
H-1B or Other Work Visas: Spouses who want to work in the U.S. may apply for a work visa if they have a qualifying job offer.

Changing status requires filing the appropriate application with USCIS and receiving approval before beginning any new activities (such as working or studying full-time).

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can P-4 visa holders work in the U.S.?
No, P-4 visa holders are not permitted to work in the U.S. They would need to apply for a different visa category to engage in employment.

2. Can P-4 visa holders attend school in the U.S.?
Yes, P-4 dependents can attend school or college in the U.S. without needing a separate student visa.

3. How long can P-4 visa holders stay in the U.S.?
P-4 visa holders can stay in the U.S. for as long as the primary P visa holder maintains valid P visa status.

4. Can P-4 visa holders apply for a Green Card?
Yes, if the primary P visa holder qualifies for a Green Card and includes dependents in the application, P-4 visa holders can be eligible for permanent residency.

5. Is the P-4 visa renewable?
Yes, the P-4 visa can be extended in alignment with the primary P visa holder’s status. The extension request must be submitted to USCIS.

6. Do P-4 visa holders need to apply separately?
Yes, each dependent must apply individually for a P-4 visa and attend an interview if required.