Influencers and OnlyFans models dominate US ‘extraordinary’ artist visas

Social media influencers and OnlyFans models are now a major group applying for the US O-1B visa, a permit meant for artists with extraordinary ability. Immigration lawyers say applications from online creators have surged since the Covid-19 pandemic, changing the profile of who qualifies for this visa category.

The O-1 visa is for people with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, business, education or sports. Lawyers told The Financial Times that influencers now make up a large share of their clients because follower counts, views and earnings are easy to measure compared with traditional artistic achievements.

This marks a shift from earlier decades, when the visa was linked to well-known musicians, actors and performers.

According to lawyers and talent managers, the number of influencers granted O-1B visas has increased sharply since the pandemic. Some attorneys say more than half of their current visa clients are influencers. They say social media data helps demonstrate success.

Government data shows that the total number of O-1 visas issued each year rose by more than 50 per cent between 2014 and 2024. This includes both O-1B visas for artists and O-1A visas for people in fields such as science and business. Over the same period, overall non-immigrant visas increased by about 10 per cent.

Despite the growth, O-1 visas remain a small part of the US visa system. Fewer than 20,000 were granted in 2024, compared with much higher numbers for H-1B visas for skilled workers. In September, President Donald Trump introduced a $100,000 one-time fee for new H-1B petitions.

The O-1B visa has its roots in earlier immigration battles involving artists. When US authorities tried to deport John Lennon in 1972, there was no special visa for artists. Congress later created the O-1B category under the Immigration Act of 1990.

Lawyers say the visa rules have been adapted to fit online creators. High follower numbers and strong income can show commercial success. Brand promotion deals can count as endorsements. Public appearances linked to online work can be treated as leading roles.

(Economic Times)