Touring and Work Permits

Since we were talking about music trade shows yesterday, how can we not talk about work permits today? After all, before every trade show, at least one musician is bummed to find out that they can't travel abroad to their trade show showcase since they didn't get the proper work permits/work visas for the trip.

Will you need a work permit to play music abroad? That depends on a few factors. The most important things to consider are 1)What is your nationality and 2) where are you going. These factors will determine how entertainment work visa laws apply to you. Other factors may be in play as well, including - perhaps most importantly - whether you will be making any money from your shows or if your tour is pure promotion (and an exercise in torture for your credit cards).

Now, I can hear what you are thinking already - and yes, ok, far be it from me to suggest to you that every musician who plays beyond his/her national borders is in the habit of securing the proper paperwork. Of course, far be it from me to suggest that you can ignore the rules and create an international incident on your way to rock out. In other words, how are you going to look carrying two guitars, an amp and a drum kit through customs while you say, "yes, just here on vacation". It's something to consider.

When it comes to touring and work permits, here are some things to keep in mind:

• If you are a playing a showcase, festival or other major event internationally, you will almost always be required to get a work permit. The organizers may be required by law to check your permit before you can take the stage. If they don't mention it - ASK.
• In many instances, you will need someone in your destination country to apply on your behalf. This may be your label, the event coordinators, a promoter or so on. If you have built your own tour and there is no obvious option, this may involve convincing a promoter who booked you to apply on your behalf. You may find this to be a tall order, so don't wait until the last minute to make the arrangements.
• Speaking of waiting until the last minute - don't do it. Just don't. Visas can take a long time to arrange. Do yourself a favor and apply early, so you have time to get the permit and deal with any problems that may come up.
• You may be required to submit things like tour itineraries and contracts for shows you've booked. Be prepared.