U.S.-based, non-profit organization the Esports Trade Association (ESTA) announced this week that it has launched what it is calling a “consultation letter service initiative for O & P Visas” for professional esports athletes, coaches, broadcast teams, tournament and event organizers, and other associated companies and executives. This new initiative is part of ESTA’s mission to promote the growth of the esports industry in the United States, according to a release.
Generally speaking, “O” visas are temporary work permits, while “P” visas are for internationally recognized performers of varying types within a group, an individual athlete, or an athletic team. Letters supporting these types of visas are required for foreign nationals who are seeking to obtain an O-1 or P-1A visa to enter the United States.
Under this new initiative the association will provide these letters for “internationally recognized esports athletes as well as other qualified esports professionals to be used in support of the individual’s visa petition and application,” according to the announcement.
Esports Trade Association member and entertainment attorney (who represents interests in esports and video games) Justin M. Jacobson, Esq. noted: “This initiative is crucial to the further development of the nation’s esports scene as the receipt of this type of letter can be beneficial in an individual’s visa application and the document is especially important in light of recent denials of visas impacting the national esports ecosystem.”
Those interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an event explaining the new program on LinkedIn Live and Twitch Tuesday, Aug. 1, at 12:00 pm CST. Members of the association will be on hand to explain the process and answer any questions.
Fore more details, visit esportsta.org.
