2021 Visa Options for NASCAR Drivers and Crew Staff

2021 Visa Options for NASCAR Drivers and Crew Staff
 
 

Many NASCAR professionals can benefit from receiving an O-1 or P-1 visa. These may include: 

  • Drivers 

  • Managers

  • Pit crew

  • Support workers

  • Mechanics, engineers & designers

  • Anyone else who is directly involved with the NASCAR team

O-1 and P-1 Visas for NASCAR Professionals in the United States

Oakhurst Legal Group enables world-class NASCAR drivers, pit crews, and support staff to compete at the highest level. We are an industry leader in motorsports-based immigration, helping racing teams obtain proper O-1 and P-1 visas to hone their craft in the United States. 

Our experienced team offers services to secure entry for international NASCAR drivers and staff into the United States. We understand the difficulties that COVID-19 has brought to the racing world. Further, immigration for NASCAR athletes and crew can be challenging due to the need to fulfill multiple visa requirements to qualify for US entry. Yet, we also recognize the importance of international travel in maintaining a championship product for NASCAR’s business and its fans. Most importantly, we are here to help your team succeed during 2021 and beyond. 

What Are the Requirements for O-1 and P-1 Visas for Motorsports Professionals?

The requirements for both O-1 and P-1 visas entail a petition process that includes an application, an itinerary for all events or activities, and a consultation letter that provides an advisory opinion. For the O-1 visa, it is necessary for NASCAR talent to prove that they possess extraordinary abilities in their field. In contrast, P-1 visas are issued to talent visiting the United States for the sole purpose of performing at a specific race or event. However, for both visas, NASCAR drivers and staff will have the burden of providing information that supports their case and proves that they meet the required qualifications. 

Important Considerations to Secure O-1 and P-1 Visas in Motorsports

Consultation Letters

Consultation letters for drivers or staff can be obtained from NASCAR. Please note that NASCAR typically assists with visas with international talent entering within the United States. If present for a single race or event, the preference will be that the NASCAR member obtains a P-1 visa.

Using NASCAR Focused Media to Prove Eligibility

Industry media releases and publications are great options to establish eligibility for both O-1 and P-1 visa immigration applications for NASCAR talent. United States Customs and Immigrations Services (USCIS) prefers publications that are wide-reaching and specific to the industry. The content of the media story should be about the NASCAR professional and their accomplishments. 

Qualifying Evaluations from Motorsports Peers

One of the eligibility criteria for an O-1A visa petition allows for a peer evaluation to be submitted in favor of the driver or staff member. If an appealing NASCAR driver or staff member works closely with another established NASCAR professional, they may be able to satisfy the criteria with a letter from one of them.

Using Compensation to Meet Criteria

One of the ways to meet the criteria for an O-1A visa is a high salary or other remuneration for services. Other remuneration includes prize money from races, endorsement and sponsorship dollar, and any other revenue-generating activities related to NASCAR. If a driver or staff member can show that what they received as payment for services is higher than the industry average, this criterion will be met.

Prove that the NASCAR Professional is filling Critical role

A NASCAR driver or staff member can prove themselves worthy of an O-1A visa by showing that they are a critical employee. This is a viable option for professional athletes or staff who would be considered “championship-level.” In other words, if the driver (or staff member supporting the driver) is sponsored by a prestigious brand, or is a world championship level for a management company, this would qualify.

Demonstrate that International Participation is Necessary

P-1 visa petitions require that the drivers or staff members participate in competitions, events and other activities that require the participation of international athletes. For NASCAR, this can be satisfied with participation in competitions with strict admission requirements for racing events, or competitions with a history of participation by international athletes. 

If you are interested in applying for an O-1 or P-1 visa, please contact our office at 310-209-8545 or email us at info@oaklg.com.  

For more information on steps for obtaining entry into the United States, visit: https://www.sherrodsportsvisas.com/p1-athlete