How to Move Forward If You Didn’t Secure an Artist Visa

Hello, I’m Maegami from the blog “Goddess’ Bangs”. Today I want to talk about artist visas. If you obtain one, you could extend your U.S. career by three years—but these days, obtaining it has become increasingly difficult.

The Reality of the Artist Visa and Its Challenges

There are many people around me who unfortunately couldn’t secure their artist visa. Reasons for denial include insufficient documentation or unsuccessful interviews, and no matter how much effort you put in, success is not guaranteed. The evaluation by the immigration authorities is especially strict, and once you get rejected, it can be emotionally tough.

Finding Success Even After a Visa Denial

Not getting the visa doesn’t mean the end. In fact, many artists return to Japan or move to Europe and continue their careers successfully. Some are even out-pacing me now. Even if you didn’t get the visa, there are infinite chances to carve out a new pathway elsewhere.

Rethinking What “Success” Means

What is success? It isn’t necessarily about being famous in the U.S. I believe true success is being able to pursue what you’re passionate about, freely working in your field, and steadily stepping forward. So if you didn’t get the artist visa, view it as the beginning of a new opportunity.

For Those Planning to Apply for a Visa: Go in with a Positive Mindset

If you’re considering applying for the artist visa (O-1) from now on, I say: apply with a “why not try” attitude. That way you’ll feel less pressure, and you won’t ride the emotional roller-coaster over the result. Be honest. Prove your achievements and future potential. And if the visa doesn’t come through, your path as an artist still has other routes. I’m cheering you on as you begin this new challenge.