Regular Processing vs. Premium Processing of O-1 and P-1 Visas for DJs
Foreign DJ trying to gig in the US? Here is an explanation of the Visa requirements
Article written by Pablo G. Velez, Esq.
US Visa Requirements Explained
When booking a foreign national DJ to perform in the U.S., you’ll need to help them get the appropriate work visa, most commonly the O-1 or P-1. It is equally vital to understand that if the DJ is outside of the US (or currently visiting the US as a tourist with ESTA), obtaining a visa is a two-part process involving two separate government agencies: USCIS and the Department of State.
USCIS: Petition Filing and Processing Options
The petition must first be approved by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), which is the domestic immigration office. When filing with USCIS, you have two options: regular processing or premium processing.
Regular & Premium Processing Explained
Regular processing is the standard route. It costs less (around $830.00 for the base government fees at the time of writing this article) but wait times can range from 4.5 to 9 months, depending on workload and the service center reviewing the case. If you are booking far in advance, this might work, but it’s risky if plans change or dates shift.
Premium processing, on the other hand, costs an extra $2,805.00, but USCIS will respond within 15 business days. That doesn’t mean instant approval, but you’ll get a decision or a request for more evidence exponentially faster. This speed can be a lifesaver when shows come up last minute or you need to reschedule travel.
U.S. Department of State: Visa Interviews and Timelines
Once a petition is approved by USCIS, an approval notice is issued, allowing for an artist to schedule an interview at a US embassy or consulate overseas. It is important to know that there is no formal process for expediting an appointment and enough time must be allocated to both interview (or complete and submit the interview waiver package) and for the artist to receive their passport back with the visa stamp in time to board a flight to make their US tours and/or other engagements. Appointment availability varies greatly from country to country, while passport returns are usually made between 7–10 business days.
Weighing Regular vs. Premium Processing
When weighing the pros and cons, it is important to keep the following in perspective: regular processing is the cheaper option, but it can take months to get an answer, which might be fine if the tour is booked far in advance; premium processing is much faster, with USCIS giving a response in 15 business days, but it comes with a hefty fee.
The big advantage of premium processing is peace of mind and flexibility. It’s great for last-minute bookings, rescheduled shows, or tight travel windows. However, if the DJ’s schedule isn’t firm and you have plenty of time, regular processing can save a significant amount of money. It is also critical to note that a regular processing case can be upgraded to premium processing at any time after USCIS issues a receipt notice, so a decision to use regular processing can also be flexible. Just keep in mind that neither option guarantees approval, so the quality of the petition is paramount.
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About the Writer:
Pablo Velez is a graduate of the George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs with Degrees in International Affairs and Spanish Language and Literature. He received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Pablo focuses on all areas of immigration law, with an emphasis on business and family visas. He has successfully represented individuals, families, and companies in securing immigrant and non-immigrant visas, and has experience with asylum cases and removal proceedings.