US Government Delays Visa Fee Increase for International Touring Musicians

The US government has put on hold a proposed visa fee increase for artists touring the country, following mounting pressure to reconsider the hefty 250% price hike. Initially announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in January, the new higher costs will now be implemented from March 2024, granting some relief to the music industry.

The visas affected by this proposal are the P and O class visas, which are essential for artists, entertainers, and workers in the creative industry to legally perform jobs in the US on short-term visits and have the ability to return within a timeframe of one to three years. The revised plan would have seen the costs skyrocket from $460 to $1,615 and $1,655, respectively, a dramatic increase compared to the 50% rise previously proposed in 2020.

Campaigners and politicians have been actively lobbying the USCIS to reverse the decision, fearing that such exorbitant visa fees could deter overseas talent from undertaking tours in the US, especially for emerging and grassroots artists. There are concerns that this move could also lead to higher ticket prices for events, which have already seen significant increases in recent years.

Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association, emphasized the potential economic and cultural threat posed by the visa fee hike, particularly for the independent live entertainment sector. He pointed out that international performers play a vital role on American stages, and the proposal could have a profound impact on venues, festivals, and promoters that heavily rely on international talent.

While the USCIS has delayed the final rule-making until March 2024, organizations like the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) will continue their efforts to prevent the proposed fee increases from taking effect. The music industry remains vigilant about visa costs and requirements, especially after the complexities and cost increases resulting from Brexit for European artists touring the UK and vice versa.