Today I am listing in simple language what is needed to qualify for O-1 artist visa as a visual artist.
We’ll skip the “Einstein” requirement and move on to the alternative list.
Remember, you must fulfill at least 3 categories. Here goes:
1. Awards, prizes and/or commendations granted by art organizations/fairs, etc.;
2. List of galleries where you have shown your work, with proof of the shows (think invitations, email invites, etc.);
3. Articles you have written about fine art that have been published in magazines, newspapers, internet, etc.;
4. Performance as a judge or on a panel of judges of other artists (try to remember if you’ve done this at a university or school);
5. Artist in residence experience;
6. Articles written about you in any form of press;
7. Membership in art organizations;
8. Full portfolio of art work;
9. Position as supervisor of a mural or other large piece where others helped you;
10. Any type of promotional material about you;
11. Radio play;
12. TV appearances;
13. Proof of payment by purchaser of your art;
14. Teaching experience;
15. Letters of recommendation written by experts in the art field and/or;
16. Other similar material.
Show as much as you can to an immigration attorney familiar with fine art. Good luck!
4 comments:
I am confused about letters of recommendation. Anything special you should say?
I get the most questions regarding "recommendation letters." These is a very important part of your application and why sometimes O-1 visas are approved. The draft letters should be prepared by your attorney. You should present the drafts (usually one page only) to the highest-ranking individuals in (hopefully) well known companies in your field and ask if they could put the letter on their company or personal stationery and sign it. A recognizable letterhead can be very effective towards adding weight to your application. I usually suggest that you collect 3 to 20 letters, depending on the strength of your case. There are reasons you may need less letters or more. Your attorney should decide this for you.
What do I do about a CV or resume? Do I really need one?
Attorneys generally like to have your list of experience and education. Most artist include a list of the galleries they have exhibited at, along with any awards received, press, etc.(see blog.) This should be written on your resume. Unlike most attorneys, I never include a resume or CV in the actual submission to Immigration, but rather use it to prepare your case in the best way possible. Additionally, an attorney must be very sure that only work experience for which you had a work permit be included. Show everything to your attorney, and he/she will figure it out.
What is my chance of approval?
First of all, your attorney must determine that and tell you the truth. No reason to spend so much money on a losing proposition. As far as the statistics go: According to the State Department, this year 9,014 Artist Visas were granted, up 40% from 2004. It seems that with careful attention to detail only about 10% of O-1 artist visa are denied.
Are TV appearances and Radio interviews really important? I don't have that.
These are only 2 of a laundry list off other possibilities. Public exposure is always a big plus. But if you don't have it this type of exposure, try to fulfill the other categories.
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