As a way to organize my thoughts for an upcoming presentation, and also for the erudition of you, the faithful readership, I’d like to discuss visa restrictions in the U.S., with a primary focus on artists.
The current process for acquiring work visas for international artists is unnecessarily long, difficult, costly of time and money, predicated largely on whim and objective decision, and carries no guarantee for success. The economic effects of receiving a rejected visa application can be devastating for both the traveling artist and the host organization. Furthermore, the application processing time line precludes the possibility of a “back-up plan” since the application process is so lengthy.
I understand the perceived need for border security and protection against defectors, but this issue not only represents a strain on cultural organizations, particularly world music organizations, who rely on talent from abroad, but also sends an extraordinarily-negative message about the American opinion of art and cultural exchange. Now, as it did during each of the previous wars in which the U.S. was involved, art needs to serve as an ambassador (think van Kliburn, Bernstein, Maya Lin).
Here are some suggestions for reform, courtesy of Americans for the Arts:
-UCIS visa application forms O and P should be updated to more accurately reflect the nature of artists’ work.
-Training of UCIS employees should be reorganized and made uniform so as to eliminate bias and objectivity where possible.
-Reduce the application turn-around time and Premium Processing fee (currently $1,000) to reduce economic risk to struggling arts organizations.
To advocate for this issue, contact your state congressman or Americans for the Arts representative.
