Visa fees for foreign artists seeking to tour America will increase by 50%, it has been confirmed.
The move has been the source of speculation for some time, and – as theQuietus notes – it has now been put in motion.
Foreign artists travelling to the United States to perform will have their visa fees increased by 50% before the end of 2020.
The change will impact on both the P and O visa types, which are commonly used by touring artists.
In short, the visas allow artists to re-enter the country within one and three years, respectively.
The fees for an O visa – suitable for "Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement" – will reach $705, a hike of some 53%.
Meanwhile the P visa – which can be used by family members of the touring party – will be priced at $695, an increase of 51%.
The changes will come into effect from October 2nd, while the actual waiting times for said visas will increase to 15 business days.
Alongside this, a fast track service has been offered – it charges fees in excess of $1000 per visa.
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