Visa Options for Ski Athletes, Coaches, and Support Staff

It’s the annual Pond Skim at Stowe Mountain, and watching all the athletic skiers got me thinking about the ski-related entries and coaching visas I often encounter in my practice.

Here are some of the key visa options:

 • O-1A Visa: For athletes or coaches with extraordinary ability and a strong record of national or international success.

 • O-2 Visa: For essential support personnel of O-1 holders—like trainers or techs—whose help is critical to performance.

 • P-1A Visa: For internationally recognized athletes competing in major U.S. events.

 • P-1S Visa: For support staff of P-1A athletes.

 • H-2B Visa: For seasonal workers—commonly used for ski instructors and resort staff.

 • J-1 Visa: For trainees and specialists coming under structured exchange or development programs.

 • B-1 Visa: For short visits like tryouts, planning meetings, or negotiations—not for coaching or competing.

Each option has different eligibility, timing, and documentation requirements. I’ve advised ski resorts, national teams, and elite athletes on these issues—and proper planning makes all the difference.

If you’re preparing for next season, now is a great time to start the conversation.