Sonicbids Blog - Music Career Advice and Gigs

Performing & Touring Overseas

Written by VISA First | Apr 9, 2009 07:34 PM

Whether you’re touring the European countries, heading Downunder or make your debut in the US, it is essential to have the correct travel visa organized in advance of your departure date!


What is a Visa and why do I need one?

A Visa is permission for a foreign national to travel and enter another country.
There are many types of visas available to non-citizens, each designed to suit a specific purpose – from the length of the proposed stay in the country, to the type of activities people want to do when they get here.



To enter most countries, you need a visa. Without the correct one you may find yourself in trouble. For instance, if you arrive in a foreign country for a gig without your entertainment visa organized, you could quite easily be escorted onto the next plane home. For example, US authorities revoked Lily Allen’s US visa (a P-Visa) and as a result she had to postpone her US tour and appearance at the MTV video music awards!



How do I apply for a visa?

First, you need to determine if you are eligible.  Many countries organize this through a points calculator, points are calculated differently for different countries.  You also must meet health requirements and be of good character.