Do You Need a Visa to Perform? A Guide for Artists Travelling for Events
Do You Need a Visa to Perform? A Guide for Artists Travelling for Events
Booking a celebrity or performer for an event isn’t just about fees and logistics—visa requirements can vary widely depending on the country. In some places, artists can enter on a simple visitor visa, while others require special work permits or entertainment-specific visas.
If you’re booking talent from the USA, UK, APAC, or EU, here’s a breakdown of what to expect when bringing an artist to perform in key event-hosting destinations.
Performing in the UK
For Non-Visa Nationals (Including USA, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea & More)
No visa required for up to 6 months if performing at an event, festival, or paid gig.
Must enter as a Standard Visitor but must not take long-term employment in the UK.
Artists must not stay beyond 6 months and cannot switch to a work visa while in the UK.
For Visa Nationals (Including China, India, Russia, and Some APAC & Middle Eastern Countries)
A Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa is required.
Sponsorship from an employer or venue is needed before applying.
Allows up to 12 months stay with an extension possibility.
➡️ More details: UK Government Guidelines
Performing in the USA
The US is one of the strictest countries when it comes to artists performing. Almost all foreign artists need a visa to perform at paid events.
The most common visas include:
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability) – For high-profile artists with a distinguished reputation.
P-1 Visa (Performers & Entertainers) – For musicians, bands, and group performers.
B-1/B-2 Visa (Tourists & Business Visitors) – Cannot be used for paid performances but is acceptable for media events and unpaid showcases.
Visa processing times can take months, and artists should apply well in advance.
➡️ More details: USCIS Visa Guidelines
Performing in the EU (Schengen Area)
UK & US Artists: No visa required for short-term cultural events (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
Some EU countries, such as Germany, France, and Spain, have their own additional requirements if the artist is staying longer.
Artists from non-Schengen countries may need a Schengen Visa (Type C or D), depending on nationality.
Work permits may be required depending on the type of performance and whether it’s commercial.
➡️ More details: EU Visa Portal
Performing in Australia
US, UK & EU Artists: Require a Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) to perform.
For one-off events or short stays, artists may be able to use a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), but paid performances typically require the 408 visa.
Processing time varies but can take weeks to months.
➡️ More details: Australian Government Visa Portal
Performing in APAC Countries (Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong)
Japan: Artists must apply for an Entertainment Visa unless performing for a free, cultural, or goodwill event.
China: Requires a Z Visa (Work Visa) for paid performances. Strict on visa applications.
South Korea: Performers need an E-6 Visa (Culture & Arts) unless invited for a diplomatic event.
Singapore & Hong Kong: Short-term performances may be allowed under a business visa, but a work permit is often required.
➡️ More details: Japan Visa Guidelines
Key Takeaways: How to Avoid Visa Issues
Plan Ahead: Visa processing times vary widely and can take months.
Know the Country’s Rules: Some nations allow entry under visitor visas, others require work permits.
Check for Updates: Visa policies frequently change, so always verify details with official government sources before making bookings.
The Booking Party Covers Visa Costs: The responsibility of covering visa expenses falls on whoever is booking the artist—this includes application fees, legal costs, and processing.
Use an Experienced Booking Agency: Agencies like Request London handle the visa process, ensuring no delays or last-minute surprises.
Access to the Right Legal Support: We work with specialist immigration lawyers who handle entertainment and artist visas, ensuring every booking meets legal and immigration standards without complications.
Final Thoughts
Visa requirements for performers vary significantly, and failing to secure the correct one can lead to delays, rejections, or even bans from certain countries.
At Request London, we navigate these complexities to ensure seamless travel for artists, musicians, and public figures. If you’re planning a celebrity booking, understanding these visa rules is essential to avoid disruptions.
Need help securing talent for an event? Contact us today.