If you are an international fashion model and you have been signed with an American fashion modeling agency, you will be requiring a work visa. There are two types of work visas international fashion models may qualify for: (1) H1-B Visa and (2) O-1 Visa.
H1-B Visa Requirements
- The fashion model must be one of distinguished merit and ability in the field of fashion modeling
- The fashion model must be prominent in the field of fashion modeling
- The petition must be filed by a US employer or agent
- The position offered to the fashion model in the United States must be one where the fashion model will be performing services, events or productions of a distinguished reputation
- The US employer must pay the fashion model the prevailing wage for that occupation in the area of intended employment
A fashion model must be prominent in the field and position must require prominence. Prominence means a high level of achievement as evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered. The person must be renowned, leading or well known.
The H1-B Visa permits a fashion model to stay in the United States for a maximum period of six years. The initial H1-B Visa is granted to the beneficiary for three years with the ability to extend up to a period of six years.
O-1 Visa
A fashion model may also qualify for an O-1 Visa if he/she can prove that he/she is a person with extraordinary ability. http://www.entertainmentvisa.com/Entertainment-Visa-Blog/2012/October/On-Your-Way-to-Obtaining-an-O-Visa.aspx
If you are an international fashion model and you would like to obtain a work visa, call us today for a free consultation at (562) 464-6934.