• Broadcast and Non-Broadcast Media Agreements
• U.S. Work Permits
• Performing in Canada for Musicians from the USA and Abroad
• Neighbouring Rights And Private Copying Royalties
• Instrument and Liability Insurance
• Health and Travel Insurance
• Services for Your Symphony
• Theatrical Performances
• Supporting Freelance Musicians
• Booking Agents
• Zero Rating Certification Program

U.S. Work Permits

Jump to: P1, P3 and O Work Permits 

The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) is recognized by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as an authorized petitioner for P2 work permits on behalf of AFM members, and their support personnel.  

While the AFM provides consulting services to all musicians, the P2 Work Permit is a member-specific service.

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The P2 Work Permit

For most musical work in the United States, musicians require a Classification P2 Work Permit, or other non-immigrant permit. Also see—B1 Business class Visitor Visa, below.

Processing Times and US Immigration Fees

For Regular Processing it is recommended to submit your P2 package 185 days before your first gig, as there is a backlog at one of the USCIS processing centers. Provide a $510 USD money order, payable to "Department of Homeland Security". 

For Premium Processing it is recommended you submit your P2 package 35 days prior to your first gig. Provide 2 separate money orders in the amount of $510 USD, the other $2,805 USD, both payable to "Department of Homeland Security.

AFM Administrative Fee

Regular Processing is $125 CAD for the first person, plus $25 CAD for each additional musicians/technicians.

Premium Processing is $150 CAD for the first musician plus $25 CAD for each musicians/technicians.

When changing processing type from Regular Processing to Premium Processing a Change fee of $25 CAD is required. 

The P2 Replacement Letter fee is $50 CAD. 

For more details please email Liana White lwhite@afm.org with questions on the Department of Homeland Security fee.

NOTE: AFM does not have control over the decisions U.S. Immigration makes on their processing times. Therefore, USCIS processing times may increase/decrease at any time, without notice. The AFM’s suggested processing timelines are based on weekly observance of the average turnaround time from submission of application to receipt of approval. You may contact our office to confirm times haven't drastically changed.

Forms and Instructions

We suggest DOWNLOADING/SAVING files below to your hard drive BEFORE filling them out.

P2 - Instructions for Completing a P2 Application

P2 - Checklist

P2 - Application Form (Parts 1 - 4)

P2 - Part 5 (Support Crew)

P2 - Part 6 (Single Performer)

P2 - Part 6 (2 or More Performers)

P2 - Tour Itinerary (Only Necessary When Performing at Multiple Venues)

P2 - Travel Engagement Contract (T2C FORM)

P2 – Permanent Resident Visa Process

P2 - Replacement Musician Application

P2 - After your P2 is Approved

If you are not yet an AFM member, or if you just joined AFM specifically to obtain a P2, please contact Cathy Lee at cathylee@afm.org for additional information.

If you are an existing AFM member, please contact the P2 Department at immigration@afm.org, or by phone to Ari Vangeest at 416 391-5161 (toll free: 1 800 463-6333) ext. 234. 

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B1 Business Class Visitor Visa

Canadians invited to the United States for showcases and conferences may qualify for a Business Visitor Visa (B-1 Visa).

For assistance in this determining B1 visa eligibility and/or to submit your application please contact:

Ari Vangeest—avangeest@afm.org, or Susan Whitfield—swhitfield@afm.org, 416-391-5161 or toll free: 1 (800) 463-6333 ext. 234 or 223.

Download the B1 (Showcase) Application Packet

Processing Time at least 5 business days prior to entry date.

The Administration fee for B1 Letter of Support is $50 CAD.

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P1, P3 and O Visa Applications  

Musicians from Canada and abroad applying for union consultation for P1, P3 and, O1 permits must contact the AFM’s New York Office: George Fiddler–gfiddler@afm.org,or Mike Epperhart–meppenhart@afm.org, 1 800 762 3444 ext. 231 or 230.

U.S. Work Permits for Canadian Musicians 

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Crossing the Border with Musical Instruments and Gear

Musicians crossing the border with instruments and gear are encouraged to apply for an ATA Carnet, a document which enables professionals to bring the tools of their trade across borders easily and without hassle, duties or border fees. Learn more about ATA Carnets from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce: Canadian Chamber of Commerce - About the ATA Carnet or Information on US Customs and Border Protection.

In the absence of a Carnet, please prepare a manifest (list) of all instruments and gear, including serial numbers and make/model of instruments. If your instrument was purchased outside of Canada, bring the original bill of sale or include the following information on the manifest: the city, state/province, and country where the instrument was purchased.                                                                                                                                      ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Emergency Medical Travel Insurance

The CFM offers Emergency Medical Travel Insurance at preferred rates through our Discount Savings Program with Union Savings/RBC and CanAm/HUB International Insurance exclusive to members and their families. Please contact us at cathylee@afm.org for more information.

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