Arts & Entertainment Visa Options
What visa options are available for artists and entertainers?
All musicians & artists need a visa to enter the United States.That is where we come in. As a law firm founded by immigrants, we know how immigrant talent enriches the United States. We regularly work with entertainers and artists to acquire the appropriate visa for them to bring their talent to the United States of America.
O-1B: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability in the Arts
This visa is intended for foreign nationals who have made extraordinary achievements in and contributions to their field. To qualify, O-1B applicants must show that they have a high level of achievement, skill, and recognition well above others in their field. O-1B applicants, from solo musicians to fine artists, must show that they are coming to the U.S. to continue to work in their field. O-1B visas require the applicant to provide substantial evidence of their extraordinary ability, but our team regularly files O-1B applications for artists of all kinds. McEntee Law Group is happy to guide employers and employees through this process.
P-1B: Internationally Recognized Entertainment Groups
P-1B visas are reserved for members of an “internationally recognized” band or entertainment group who have reached a certain level of recognition with the Music Industry. To qualify for the P-1B visa your band or entertainment group must be internationally recognized, having a “high level of achievement in the field evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered.” The band or entertainment group must be coming temporarily to the United States to continue work in their field. At least 75 percent of the members must have had a substantial and sustained relationship with the band or entertainment group for at least one year. Additionally, it is the reputation of the group and not the achievements of any single member that is essential.
What visa options are available for culturally unique entertainers?
P-3: Culturally Unique Entertainers & Groups
The P-3 visa is for individuals and groups who want to temporarily come to the U.S. to share their culturally unique art form. On a P-3 visa, performers can perform at cultural events, teach classes, and give presentations. From Irish dancers to Mariachi bands, our team can help qualified individuals and groups enrich the U.S. and advance their careers on a P-3 visa.
Is there a permanent residency option?
Artists, musicians, and other performers at the top of their game may qualify for employment-based green cards. Like the O-1B visa, they can apply based on extraordinary ability. There is also a green card option with those with exceptional ability. The best green card for you depends on the evidence you can provide. Our team at McEntee Law Group is very familiar with the employment-based green card application process, and we regularly work with athletes and creative professionals. We are happy to chat with you to discuss your options.
