Wildes & Weinberg, PC is proud to be at the forefront of representing esports organizations and athletes alike in connection with their United States immigration needs. Similar to traditional sports leagues, such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, esports players are athletes that must secure an appropriate visa so they can be authorized to enter the United States and compete in their profession without running afoul of any immigration rules or regulations.

Our firm has 60+ years experience with the two main nonimmigrant, or temporary, options that apply to esports professionals: the P-1 visa and the O-1 visa. In its most general terms, the P-1 visa allows athletes who are “internationally recognized” to showcase their astonishing talents on American soil during specific athletic competitions, seasons, or events. Coaches, trainers, and other support staff who can prove that they are essential to a principal P-1 athlete can apply for what’s known as a P-1S visa, so they may support the team or individual in their efforts from within the United States. The other option, which often provides more flexibility, is the O-1 visa, which permits individuals that possess “extraordinary abilities” in their field to enter the United States to work within their industry. Although the standard is much higher, there are benefits to seeking an O-1 visa over a P-1, and our legal team often strategically prefers this route in order to ensure the best chances of success. We often seek O-1 visas for Influencers, Streamers, and Content Creators in the gaming world as well, as esports often bleeds into these industries, especially when the athletes and games are streamed on Twitch, YouTube, Kick, or Rumble.

While the immigration process can seem daunting, the labyrinthine landscape of immigration law is surmountable with a strong legal team by your side. What is most crucial is finding an esports immigration lawyer or esports immigration law firm that has 60+ years experience in this world, as the stakes are often very high, rosters are finalized with inked contracts early on in free agency, and fans do not want to be disappointed if things go awry. Luckily, at Wildes & Weinberg, we have 60+ years experience in understanding the history and complexities of United States immigration law, as well as the nuances and novelty of the esports industry.

Some of our esports clients have included the following organizations:

• Minnesota ROKKR (Call of Duty league)
• Team MIBR (Valorant Champions Tour)
• Gaimin Gladiators (Dota 2)
• Version 1 (Valorant Champions Tour: Game Changers)
• Immortals (League of Legends)
• And more