\ afm \ Adjudicator's Field Manual - Redacted Public Version \ Chapter 33 Performing Artists, Entertainers, Athletes and Others of Extraordinary Ability (O & P Classifications). \ 33.1 Background.
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The Immigration Act of 1990,
Pub. L. 101-649
, added the O and P nonimmigrant classes to section 101(a)(15) of the Act. These new classes provided for admission of artists, entertainers and other persons of extraordinary ability. However, as a result of the passage of the Armed Forces Immigration Adjustment Act, Pub. L. 102-110, the use of the O and P classifications was delayed until April 1, 1992. Prior to enactment of these laws, artists, athletes and other performers were admitted under the H-1 (distinguished merit and ability), H-2 or B-1 categor
ies. The 1990 amendments also revised the H classifications, effectively barring their continued use by most performing artists and athletes.