Services
Over the years, obtaining visas for foreign artists has become exponentially more difficult as USCIS continually increases the demands on artists to prove their extraordinary ability. Artist Visa Services aims to make the visa application process as easy and simple as possible. The first step is to discern if the artist qualifies for a visa and which classification is appropriate. These visa classifications are all employment-based, so contracts must be in place before a petition can be undertaken. After obtaining personal information and documents from the artist to complete the USCIS's I-129 petition for nonimmigrant worker, Artist Visa Services compiles compelling evidence as dictated by current USCIS guidelines to demonstrate the artist's qualifications in their field. The draft application is sent to the designated labor union for a required consultation letter before it is submitted to USCIS for adjudication. Upon receipt by USCIS, the artist completes the online DS-160 application and arranges to have the visa processed into their passport after an approval notice is issued by either in-person interview or mail-in processing at their local consulate (is dictated by the State Department and you cannot choose your preferred method).
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Artist Visa Services advises visa applications be initiated as soon as possible after confirming their engagement(s). Petitions may be submitted to USCIS up to one year prior to the artist's arrival in the US. In 2024, USCIS began arbitrarily assigning visa petitions to its two service centers--without providing notice--meaning regular processing can take anywhere from 2 months to 9 months or longer. For that reason in particular, initiating the application process as early as possible is essential to having the best chance for a successful result without the exorbitant Premium Processing fee of $2,805, which guarantees a decision within 15 business days. Read more about this recent development here.
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Fees
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Artist Visa Services is committed to making the visa process affordable for small to mid-sized US arts organizations as well as foreign artists who must procure their own US work permit. Due to the recent restructuring of USCIS fees, your costs can vary depending on your field and lead time, but you can typically plan on the following costs:
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Labor union consultation letter: $300-$550 (vary by union and turnaround time)
USCIS I-129 petition fee: $510-$530
USCIS asylum fee: $300 (unless a US nonprofit serves as petitioner, at the discretion of Artist Visa Services)
Preparation fee: $1,250
USCIS Premium Processing fee: $2,805 (required by AVS when a petition is being submitted 4 months or less prior to entry)
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Please note that consulate fees are not included in the above costs.
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Artist Visa Classifications
O-1B
This visa classification is for individual artists of extraordinary ability who demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and a high level of achievement in their field. Evidence must be submitted proving the artist's leading roles in successful productions, engagements with prominent organizations, international critical acclaim, and significant recognition of achievements in their field. A bright distinction is made by USCIS between artistic/musical talent and significant achievements and recognition, the latter being their primary focus. This visa classification can be obtained for up to 3 years if contracts have been procured and significant gaps between engagements do not exist.
P-1
This visa classification is for internationally-recognized entertainment groups (and US based groups employing foreign guest artists who are not soloists) having a high level of achievement, skill, and recognition in more than one country.​ Additionally, it must be demonstrated that least 75% of the members have had a sustained and significant relationship with the group for at least 1 year. This visa classification can be obtained for up to 1 year and artists may only perform with the approved ensemble while in the US on that visa. ​Please note that only 25 members may be included on each petition, so that multiple petitions--and therefore multiple application fees--may be required.
P-3
This visa classification is for artists presenting traditional culturally unique performances. Evidence must be submitted to prove the US performance is culturally unique and demonstrate the artist's specialized experience in traditional art forms. This visa classification can be obtained for up to 1 year.
O-2/P-1S
These visa classifications are for essential support personnel such as accompanying musicians, musical and/or production assistants, and tour managers. Evidence must be submitted to prove the past working relationship with the primary visa holder for at least 1 year and the support person's unique qualifications to perform the supporting duties. These classifications should match the validity period of the primary visa holder.
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