I was speaking to the Battlefield Band’s Robin Morton the other day about USA work visas and he told me that they have worked with immigration lawyer Matthew Covey of CoveyLaw. Interestingly in 1998 Matthew and a group of friends formed as a non-profit called Tamizdat who’s mission was of facilitating international cultural exchange. Early on, it became clear that U.S. visa policy is one of the most significant obstacles to international cultural exchange, so Tamizdat set out to change that by establishing a sympathetic and affordable artist-oriented Visa Service designed to help performing artists to navigate the U.S. visa system. At the moment they are spearheading an international project to advocate for improvements to the US artist visa system.
In 2014, with artists facing increasing complex legal challenges, Tamizdat teamed up with CoveyLaw, to ensure that every client receives Tamizdat’s renowned efficiency and musician-friendly customer service, while also benefiting from the depth of expertise and representation that only a law firm can provide.
In cooperation with CoveyLaw, Tamizdat can provide a unique service for independent performing artists who need a U.S. work visa, but either lack a U.S. petitioner or “sponsor,” or who do not wish for their visa to be tied to a specific U.S. employer (like their label or agent).
Below is what CoveyLaw write on their website about obtaining USA work visas.
For the performing artist, touring in the U.S. can be enormously rewarding. But getting into the U.S. can be very difficult. In most situations, foreign performers need special visas to enter the U.S., but getting these visas can be expensive, slow, and confusing. Most touring performers get the help of a visa professional when they are coming to the U.S., and most turn to CoveyLaw. CoveyLaw’s friendly staff is made up of lawyers and arts professionals who all understand your needs, and who work to get you the visa you need, affordably and on time.
This web site will give you a good sense of how the process works. If you still have questions or if you know you want to work with us, please contact will@covey.law, and we will get you started in the right direction.
All You Need To Know:
Fees
Getting Started
Documents we will need from you
Preparing for your meeting with your local US consulate
FAQ