Musicians and Bands
There are several visa options available to musicians performing in the U.S.:
- O-1 visa is for an individual artist who is internationally renowned
- P-1 visa is similar to an O-1, but is for groups
- P-2 visa is specific to artists (solo or group) who are emerging artists, as well as those of international recognition entering the U.S. in a reciprocal exchange program
- P-3 visa is for groups that are culturally unique such as musicians performing folk music of their home country
It should be noted that evidence by way of music industry award nominations/wins, articles, interviews (internet, print, radio), is required as part of the O-1 and P-1 petitions. An O-1 visa allows musicians to work in the U.S. for up to three years, while P-1, P-2, and P-3 visas allow musicians to work for up to one year. Subject to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval, all visa classifications allow the possibility of a one-year extension if the original performance contract is extended by the same employer.
The processing times for all classes of artist visas are 95-125 calendar days through regular processing, and approximately 25 days through premium processing. Suggested time frames will help to ensure the musicians receive all original visa documentation prior to the date of travel.
O-1 Visa
O-1 visas may be utilized by musicians with “extraordinary” talent. Extraordinary talent must be demonstrated through sustained national or international acclaim. Extensive documentation is required and the foreign national must show that he or she is willing to enter the U.S. for the purpose of continuing work in his or her area of expertise.
P-1 Visa
A member of a band or singing group may be granted P-1 status if he or she will perform with, or is an integral and essential part of the performance of the group. The group must be recognized internationally as being outstanding for a sustained and substantial time. Each member must have had a substantial relationship with the group for at least one year and must be seeking to enter the U.S. for the purposes of performing with the group.
P-2 Visa
P-2 visas are available to musicians, whether as individuals or as a group, who seek to enter the U.S. under a reciprocal exchange program set up between the United States and a foreign country.
P-2 visas filed under both regular and premium processing require the same basic information: completed applications, copies of passports for all travelling, complete contracts and/or a detailed tour itinerary and the appropriate USCIS processing fees.
P-3 Visas
Individual musicians or bands who seek to enter the United States solely to perform, teach, or coach may obtain a P-3 visa. They must do so under a commercial or non-commercial program which is culturally unique.
Musicians Performing with Multiple Bands
Musicians who regularly perform with more than one band must have an individual P-2 visa. USCIS only recognizes one classification at a time. Applying for a P-2 visa to perform with one band will not cover all performances with all bands.
An applicant will need a signed acknowledgment by the bandleader, band management, or booking agent, which outlines how many U.S. performances will sought and what the role the applicant will have along with the compensation. A copy of the contract or tour itinerary for each band is also required.
U.S. Showcase Performances
Singers and musicians may use the B-1 visa to participate in a cultural program provided that he or she is performing before a non-paying audience. The B-1 is also available to musically talented individuals who come to the U.S. to compete for prize money or for auditions.
Support letters for B-1 visa entry are required for the following showcase-type performances:
- Closed to the general public, with industry professional only audiences (e.g., labels, managers)
- Free to the public audiences or parking lot performances (e.g., outside record stores)
- In connection with a music conference, with the performance taking place within the conference hotel, with the stage set up in the tradeshow or conference area
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