08/11/2025
Its is a shame they are making it so hard for European Djs and lives to come play here. That option should always be available. Well, we are pretty self sufficient nowadays.And have amazing talent in the states. Im personally not happy with this kind of monopoly authority.
"USA artist visa prices are out of control. It’s outrageous that where you’re born can dictate whether you can play your music globally. A European DJ needs an expensive O-1B 3 years visa just to play one show in the US, easily costing around $7000–$12000 these days when you add up the fees. The U.S. petition fee alone recently jumped from $460 to about $1,655, then there’s a $205 embassy visa fee. On top of that, artists must hire an immigration lawyer or agent, who typically charge $4000–$8000 to handle the paperwork. And if you need speed, USCIS also offers a “premium processing” option for $2,805 more. You don't even have any guarantee that you will get it and the processing can take up to 6 months. If they deny you the visa all the money is gone.
By contrast, U.S. DJs tour European Union with almost no visa cost. American passport holders get 90 days visa-free entry under Schengen, or else pay a standard Schengen visa fee (about $90). Basically pocket change compared to the U.S. side. This huge disparity isn’t fair. Why should a DJ from EU have to scramble for $10K in fees just to play a gig in the States, while a US DJ needs virtually nothing to play in Europe?
It’s a barrier to cultural exchange and opportunity. Rising visa costs are forcing talented international DJs to cancel U.S. shows or scale back tours, limiting the diversity of line-ups in American clubs and festivals. Fans lose out when their favorite European acts drop off bills, and artists lose fans and income when they can’t tour freely. It’s simply unfair that independent musicians from abroad face crippling costs and delays to earn a living in the world’s biggest music market.
DJs, musicians, fans and music workers: let’s call this out and demand change."
Credit : artic moon