08 September 2006

Visa woes cause massive disappointment for American music fans

Thousands of music fans in North America have been left disappointed after British group Massive Attack experienced visa problems.

The group were due to fly to Canada to headline the inaugural V-Festival in Toronto at the weekend, followed by dates in Montreal and then across the border in the US with gigs in Detriot and Chicago, but were forced to pull out after not receiving their United States visas in time.

A statement on the group's website read: "In spite of timely and coordinated efforts, the essential U.S. immigration visas were not issued in time for the beginning of the Massive Attack North American tour."

Performce groups looking to perform in the United States can apply for a P-1 visa.

The P-1 visa is for groups who are internationally recognized as being 'outstanding' and there are strict criteria for a successful P-1 petition.

These include:

• The group, as named on the petition, have been performing together for at least a year and that;
  
  
• At least 75% of the group members have been with the group for at least a year and provide a critical function for the group.
  
  
• The group has received significant internationally recognised awards or prizes, or at least been nominated for them.

In addition, three of the following must also be shown to be true for a successful petition:

• The group will be performing or starring in events with a distinguished reputation, as evidenced by critical reviews, publications, publicity releases, advertisements or endorsements.
  
  
• The group has received international recognition and acclaim for outstanding achievements in its field, again to be evidence by critical reviews in newspapers, trade publications or magazines.
  
  
• The group has had major commercial or critically acclaimed successes, such as box office receipts, ticket sales, video sales or evidenced by articles in newspapers or trade journals.
  
  
• The group is recognized for its achievements, by organizations, critics, government agencies, or other recognized experts, whose authority must be authenticated.
  
  
• The group commands or will command a high salary or other substantial remuneration for services comparable to other groups similarly situated.
  

Massive Attack says it intends to reschedule dates.