US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has agreed to delay the implementation of visa hikes that could negatively impact touring musicians.
Under proposed guidelines announced in January 2023, O and P visa fees for internationally touring musicians and other visitors would increase by more than 250%. USCIS is now delaying a rate hike until at least March 2024 and is considering reducing the rate hike entirely.
Florida Congressman Maxwell Frost, who knows a thing or two about live music, is leading a group of congressional Democrats calling for the US IC to change its position. “Immigration Services’ decision to delay the proposed rate hike and rework the plan is the right move to support our nation’s small business community and the hundreds of thousands of traveling artists who are an important part of our local economy,” Congressman Frost said.
Stephen Parker, executive director of the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), said, “USCIS’s proposal to substantially increase visa fees for international performers poses a serious economic and cultural threat to independent live entertainment in the United States, undercutting these shows. The important role of the author” performed on our stage. A 2023 survey of independent venues, festivals and promoters shows that international talent accounts for more than a quarter of the average venue’s performances, and can even account for 100% of Latin music promoter performances. While we appreciate USCIS’ decision to delay final rulemaking on this issue until March 2024, NIVA will continue to work hard to block the proposed fee increase. “
A spokesman for the USCIS has previously stated that billboard The rate hike will not affect the musicians themselves, but rather their US employers, including promoters, club owners, record labels or festival producers. Critics of the policy, however, say employers will simply pass the increased fees on to artists, while raising ticket prices.