⚖️ B-1 Visa for Referees, Judges, and Technical Officials in International Sporting Events
- visa code
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
Under 9 FAM 402.2-5(C)(1)(U), the U.S. Department of State allows certain foreign nationals to enter the United States on a B-1 visa for the purpose of officiating or administering international sporting events, provided the following conditions are met:
✅ Who Qualifies?
Foreign nationals serving in an official capacity, such as:
Referees
Judges
Technical officials
...in sporting events of international standing, such as:
FIFA World Cup (FIFA World Cup 26™)
Olympic Games (2028 Summer Olympics)
World Championships
International Tennis/Cricket/Track Events
🛂 Key Eligibility Requirements
Selection Process: The applicant must be formally selected or invited by an international governing body or organizing committee based on their expertise.
Event of International Dimension: The event must involve participants from multiple countries, governed by internationally recognized rules.
No Salary from a U.S. Source: The official must not be paid a salary or fee by a U.S. entity.
✅ Allowed: Travel reimbursement, accommodation, per diem, or stipends for incidental expenses.
❌ Not Allowed: Compensation for services performed while in the U.S.
Temporary Stay: The stay must be temporary, limited to the duration of the event or assignment.
⚠️ Example of Misuse (What Not to Do):
A foreign referee hired by a U.S. sports league for an entire season and paid a salary would require a work visa (e.g., P-1, O-1) not a B-1.
📝 DOS Language (9 FAM Excerpt)
“Referees, judges, and other officials selected to oversee international sporting events may be classified as B-1 visitors, provided they receive no salary or payment other than for incidental expenses from a U.S. source and are coming for a specific event of international dimension.”
📌 Summary Table
Role | Eligible for B-1? | Conditions |
FIFA World Cup Referee | ✅ Yes | Selected by governing body, no U.S. salary |
Olympic Stroke Judge | ✅ Yes | Temporary, officiating international athletes |
Local league umpire | ❌ No | Not international, likely needs a work visa |
Paid by U.S. team | ❌ No | Any direct compensation from U.S. entity disqualifies B-1 use |