Introduction
When global soccer star Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami and extended his contract through 2028, fans not only focused on his on‑pitch brilliance — they also speculated about the immigration side of his move. As a non‑U.S. citizen, Messi needed the right visa to work in the United States as a professional athlete. So, what visa does he, and other elite players like him, use?
Professional Athletes Need a Work Visa
Foreign athletes entering the U.S. to play professionally — meaning they will be paid by a U.S. team — must have a work‑authorized visa. They cannot compete under a tourist or student visa if they are under contract with a U.S. club.
P‑1A: The Standard Visa for Professional Sports Stars
The P‑1A visa is the most common temporary work visa used by professional athletes in the U.S. This category applies when:
- The athlete is internationally recognized; and
- They come to the U.S. to play, train, or compete as part of a contract with a U.S. team or league.
Top athletes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the NBA, MLB, NFL, and other professional sports typically enter the U.S. on a P‑1A visa because:
- Their contracts make them employees of U.S. sports organizations.
- Their achievements satisfy the criteria for international recognition.
In theory, Messi and other marquee players fit this description — they are global stars with documented achievements well beyond ordinary professional levels.
O‑1A: Extraordinary Ability Alternative
In some cases, elite athletes use the O‑1A visa, which is for individuals with extraordinary ability in athletics. The O‑1A category requires extensive documentation of top‑tier achievements, awards, and international acclaim.
Some elite players choose O‑1A when their recognition is exceptionally high — although for many, especially those in team contracts, the P‑1A remains standard.
What This Means for Messi
While specific visa details for Messi are private, professional players of his caliber and contract status generally obtain P‑1A visas to play in the U.S. as part of Major League Soccer. This allows them to:
- Live and work in the U.S. for the duration of their contract
- Enter and exit the U.S. for matches or international duties
- Bring immediate family members on dependent visas (e.g., P‑4) in many cases
Messi’s global stature and MLS contract make this the most likely visa category used to authorize his performance in America.
Conclusion
Elite international soccer players, including Lionel Messi, typically enter the U.S. under the P‑1A athlete visa when they have a professional contract with a U.S. team. In certain cases — depending on the individual’s achievements — the O‑1A extraordinary ability visa may also apply. Understanding the right visa category is critical for compliance, performance, and long‑term planning.
