AccessMyLibrary provides FREE access to over 30 million articles from top publications available through your library.
Create a link to this page
Copy and paste this link tag into your Web page or blog:
Changes to US law mean more red tape for visas.(Viewpoint)
Planning and arranging a tour to the US can be a nightmare given the many logistical hurdles you need to get over, particularly the process of getting tour members into the country.
It's about to get worse, following recent changes to US immigration law as a result of continuing security concerns. It will take much longer to get the correct paperwork allowing each artist, band member and support crew into the country. Getting it wrong can mean a cancelled tour and loss of income.
Most US work visas require a two-stage process. Stage one: A petition needs to be filed in the US requesting the issue of a visa. If successful, permission is given for an individual to apply for their US visa at their local US embassy. If a premium-processing fee is paid (currently $1,000) a decision should take around two weeks. If approved, the petition is then sent to the UK. Each member of the tour will need a copy to then make their individual visa applications at the US Embassy in London.
Stage 2: Since August 1, 2003, nearly all applicants for non-immigrant US visas have to attend a ...