If you are a member of an international entertainment group AND you would like to obtain a work visa permitting you to work in the United States, it is an absolute requirement that the entertainment group have been performing together as a group for at least a one year period.
This means that the entertainment group must be able to show documentation that it has been performing together for at least a one year period in its country of origin and/or internationally.
In addition, it is important to note that 75% of the members of the entertainment group must have been members of the group for at least a one year period. This means that 25% of the members of the group could have been members of the group for less than a one year period.
Example: If your entertainment group has 4 members, then at least 3 members must have been performing together as a group for at least one year. And 1 member can be completely new or have been performing with the group for less than a one year period.
There are a few exceptions to the one year requirement. The following is a list of exceptions:
- Circuses
- Where exigent circumstances are present
- Where the director determines that there are special circumstances
Exceptions are determined on a case-by-case basis.
If you are an international entertainment group and you would like to know whether you qualify for an American work visa, please contact our office at (562) 464-6934 for a free consultation with one of our attorneys. We hope to hear from you soon.