Obtaining and Extending an Artist Visa Under the Trump Administration

For Those Considering Applying for or Renewing an Artist Visa

Hello! This is Maegami from the blog The Goddess’s Bangs. As we step into 2025, many of you may be feeling uncertain about applying for or renewing an artist visa. With former President Trump’s re-election, it’s natural to wonder how immigration policies may change.

maegami

2025 is going to be quite something

In this article, I will explain in detail how to obtain and extend an artist visa (O-1 visa) under the Trump administration. I’ll also share my personal experience of successfully extending my visa in 2017 during Trump’s previous term.

Impact on Visa Applications Under a Republican Administration

Under the Biden administration, immigration policies were relatively relaxed, resulting in an increase in the number of green cards issued. Many of my friends, including myself, were able to obtain permanent residency during this period.

However, with Trump 2.0 in 2025, immigration policies are expected to become stricter. For example, restrictions on H-1B and other work visas may be tightened. That said, obtaining an artist visa (O-1 visa) remains entirely possible, just as it was during Trump’s previous term.

In fact, I know musicians and artists who successfully obtained O-1 visas and traveled to the U.S. in 2025. So, there’s no need to worry excessively.

Artist Visas are Still Obtainable in 2025

You might be concerned that visas will be harder to get under Trump. However, the criteria for artist visas haven’t changed drastically. With well-prepared documentation, visa acquisition and renewal are achievable. Even during the Biden administration, some artist visa applications were denied.

What changes the most?

• Tougher Interviews: Interviews may become more rigorous, as was my experience during the previous Trump administration.
• Increase in RFEs (Request for Evidence): Additional documentation requests may become more common.
• Higher Fees: As of 2025, the application fee exceeds $1,000.

Regardless of the administration, proper documentation and preparation are the keys to success.

👉 Check out my article on Visa Interview Tips

My Experience Extending an Artist Visa Under the Trump Administration in 2017

In 2017, I successfully extended my artist visa (O-1 visa) for three years under the Trump administration. During this process, I received two RFEs. By responding appropriately to their questions, I was granted the extension.

Tips for Handling RFEs:

• Provide detailed comparisons of your past and current activities.
• Strengthen your application with additional awards, media coverage, and recommendation letters.
• Enhance the quality of recommendation letters with specific achievements rather than using a generic format.

Interestingly, I suspect my application was reviewed by the same immigration officer as before, indicating a consistent evaluation process.

Major Changes for Artist Visas Under the Trump Administration

• Increased Fees: The application fee has surged over the years.
  • Initial application (Past): Approx. $360
  • Around 2020: $680
  • 2025: Over $1,000
• Premium Processing: Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
• Longer Processing Times: The standard processing time may extend beyond 6-8 months.
• Stricter Interviews: Expect detailed questions about your achievements and contributions to the U.S. art scene.

Tips for Successfully Applying or Renewing an Artist Visa in 202

• Prepare Comprehensive Documentation
  • Organize past works and performance records into a clear, professional portfolio.
• Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters
  • Secure sincere letters from individuals familiar with your work.
• Provide Media Coverage Evidence
  • Quality over quantity — three well-regarded media articles or reviews are ideal.
• Master Your Interview Preparation
  • Be ready to clearly explain your activities in English. Trump’s policies have emphasized stricter language proficiency assessments.
  • Conduct mock interviews to practice your responses.
• Consult an Immigration Attorney
  • Working with a lawyer can be beneficial, especially when handling RFEs.

Conclusion: Artist Visas Are Still Obtainable in 2025!

While immigration policies under Trump may become stricter, artist visas (O-1 visas) are still attainable with proper preparation. In fact, Japanese artists have successfully obtained visas and traveled to the U.S. in 2025.

The key to success is thorough documentation, careful interview preparation, and appropriate responses to RFEs.

If you are considering applying for a visa, plan ahead and take the necessary steps for a smooth application process.