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Never Stop the Press
Why Media Coverage Matters for EDM DJs on the O-1/P-1B Visa Path
Article written by Pablo G. Velez, Esq.
For EDM DJs aiming to perform and build careers in the U.S., the O-1/P-1B visa is necessary, but not easy to get. This visa is reserved for artists who can prove they’re at the top of their field, and one of the best ways to do that is through solid media coverage from major outlets.
Articles in well-known music publications like 6AM, DJ Mag, Mixmag, Resident Advisor, or Billboard don’t just boost a DJ’s profile, they serve as hard evidence of their influence and reputation. Immigration officers reviewing petitions are looking for proof that the artist has earned significant attention, not just within the industry, but in the broader cultural landscape.
Take DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list, for example. The list is more than bragging rights, it’s often used as a key piece of evidence in visa petitions to show worldwide recognition. The same goes for interviews or feature stories in Rolling Stone, Forbes, Dancing Astronaut, or EDM.com, that highlight a DJ’s creativity, impact, or success.
The more press an artist has—and the more credible the sources—the stronger their case becomes. A portfolio of feature stories, reviews, and industry accolades from respected media outlets can go a long way in convincing USCIS that the DJ qualifies as someone with “extraordinary ability.”
At the end of the day, press coverage doesn’t just promote your work, it helps prove your worth for visa purposes. For any DJ with U.S. tour dreams or long-term plans in the states, strong media presence isn’t optional, it’s essential.
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.