Can I Get a US Visa as a Social Media Influencer?
If you’re a social media influencer or a content creator, you might be wondering whether your success qualifies you for a US visa. Perhaps you have millions of followers, or maybe you have earned a fortune posting content online. You may have lucrative brand deals or paid subscription services. Does this give you an advantage as you try to move to the United States? This may be something worth discussing with an experienced immigration attorney in Palm Beach Gardens.
You May Qualify as an “Extraordinary Artist”
One of the newest trends in US immigration policy is the influx of O-1 visa applicants who are social media influencers or content creators. This visa category is reserved for artists and other talented individuals with “extraordinary abilities.” The definition of “extraordinary” is intentionally vague in this context, and the immigration authorities can use their discretion to determine whether applicants truly meet this standard.
Many Social Media Influencers and Content Creators Are Obtaining O-1 Visas
It is clear that many social media influencers and content creators are obtaining O-1 visas. This suggests that the immigration authorities consider social media content and certain subscription services to be “art” for all intents and purposes. Perhaps most importantly, they seem to define “extraordinary ability” in this context as financial success or “reach.” If you have millions of followers or a track record of monetizing your following, you may achieve similar levels of success.
The Influx of Social Media Stars Is Controversial
Some are not happy about this trend. These people point out that social media stars and content creators now outnumber “legitimate” artists like musicians and actors in terms of approved O-1 visas. These critics do not believe that a large social media following is equivalent to “actual” artistic success, such as winning an award for a painting. Others push back against this viewpoint, pointing out that becoming successful in the world of social media takes “real” talent.
How Big of a Social Media Start Do I Need to Be?
It is difficult to determine whether a social media star will meet the “extraordinary” requirements associated with O-1 visas. However, some say that you need at least 100,000 followers. Others say that you need to be in the top 1-2% of your respective field, which may bring this minimum to a much higher level. Ultimately, this is something you should discuss with your immigration lawyer.
Can a Palm Beach Gardens Immigration Attorney Help Me Get a Visa?
Florida is a popular destination for social media influencers around the world, and a Palm Beach Gardens immigration attorney can help you review your options. Immigration authorities in the United States have an established track record of awarding O-1 visas to social media influencers and content creators. Legal assistance could increase your chances of success. Contact The Devore Law Group today to learn more about the next steps.
Sources:
hyperallergic.com/influencers-and-onlyfans-models-turn-to-artist-visas-to-enter-us/
ca.news.yahoo.com/onlyfans-models-influencers-rule-u-223351491.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMZB11bZ1FvFFLCpARtp1265OS9tfU129d720FXsJAFMiv_-HNiqH5lOUfoCC80wusRsG90_NUM8k3mvwXCJ_afxnGc0LWa4BXVCHr_WKIO9a2xGt6zIS3LqamE3GdVv-tweDZ9vzC9UJ73hvtSBbURubeFwTax6BK-WcxwGEwwX
