Touring in USA

As a UK musician, obtaining a visa to play in the USA can be an expensive long process. This guide is designed to give you an overview of the process but as this is a constantly changing area we recommend consulting a US-based immigration attorney for up to date advice. 

Please Note: Laws, procedures, forms and fees can change year on year so please always check the official notes from the relevant government bodies for the most up to date information.

1. Visa requirements in USA

USA visa guidance for artists (O & P visas)

If you are travelling to the United States temporarily to perform and you will be paid, you will usually need a non-immigrant work visa (an “O” or “P” category), rather than travelling on ESTA.

Securing the correct visa can be time-consuming and expensive, and the rules, fees, and processing times can change frequently—so we strongly recommend taking advice from a qualified, US-based immigration attorney.

Budgeting and fees

US touring visas typically involve two sets of costs:

  1. USCIS petition stage (in the US)
    A US-based petitioner (often a US employer, presenter, or US agent) files a petition with USCIS on your behalf. Legal fees and petition-related costs usually make up the largest part of the overall spend.
  2. Visa application stage (at a US Embassy/Consulate)
    Once the petition is approved, you apply for the visa at a US Embassy/Consulate. Petition-based temporary worker visa application fees (including O and P categories) are set by the Department of State and can change.

Because costs vary by case (and can change), we recommend planning funding well in advance. Many attorneys will ask for an upfront retainer.

Who should be included on the petition?

Most of the work and cost sits in preparing and filing the petition, so it’s important to ensure everyone who needs to travel is properly covered (artists and, where appropriate, essential support personnel). Speak to your attorney about whether to include potential substitutions or additional personnel—adding people later may mean additional filings.

Interviews: what to expect (UK/Ireland)

Historically most applicants attended an in-person interview. Current rules mean most nonimmigrant visa applicants will generally require an in-person interview, with limited exceptions (for example, certain B1/B2 renewals within specific criteria). Your attorney can advise how this applies to your case.

Applicants in the UK/NI normally book appointments through the official online appointment systems for London or Belfast. Availability can vary, so check both where you are eligible to apply.

Booking shows vs. starting the visa process

In most cases you will need at least some confirmed engagements (contracts/offer letters and a clear itinerary) before your petition can be filed. This can make scheduling difficult, so build in as much lead time as possible.

Common visa categories for musicians

The visa route for artists is usually one of the following (your attorney will confirm the best fit):

  • O-1 – Individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts
  • O-2 – Essential support personnel accompanying an O-1
  • P-1B – Members of an internationally recognised entertainment group
  • P-2 – Reciprocal exchange programme performers
  • P-3 – Artists/entertainers in a culturally unique programme

Visa validity and entry to the US

O and P visas can cover different lengths of time depending on the petition and itinerary. Importantly: having a valid visa does not guarantee entry—admission is always decided at the border. If you have any concerns (previous refusals, overstays, arrests/convictions, or prior entry issues), discuss them with your attorney early, as these situations can cause delays or refusals.

Typical supporting information (varies by case)

Your attorney will tell you exactly what is needed, but common items include:

  • Passport bio page(s) for all travellers
  • Copies of any prior US visas (if applicable)
  • Contracts/offer letters and a tour itinerary
  • Artist biography and supporting career materials (press, awards, recordings)
  • Evidence relevant to the specific visa category and petition strategy

After filing: next steps

Once your attorney files the petition, USCIS will issue a receipt and the case will be processed. When the petition is approved, you then complete the consular stage and book your appointment through the official visa appointment service for your location.

Tax Requirements in USA

Your earnings in the US will be subject to withholding tax of 30% unless you enter into a Central Withholding Agreement (CWA) with the IRS. 

Read the official guidance:
IRS: Overview of the Central Withholding Agreement program

Engage a Central Withholding Agent

You will need a Central Withholding Agent to negotiate the Central Withholding Agreement (CWA) with the IRS. These are authorised professionals whose services start at around $750 for their services, but they could save you much more in taxes across a whole tour and can advise on the process and tax return requirements 

 

Further Help

  • Here are some of the companies who specialise in providing visa services to artists touring in the USA. We are not recommending or endorsing any of these companies & there are other who provide the same service who you may choose to use.
  • Here are some companies who provide CWA services. We are not recommending or endorsing any of these companies & there are other who provide the same service who you may choose to use.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Rules for visas and taxation can change, and individual circumstances (tour length, number of gigs, payment arrangements, residency status, etc.) can affect what applies to you. Always check the latest official guidance and consider seeking professional advice for your specific situation.

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