Working Overseas

Most musicians will do at least some work abroad during their career, and whilst this can be hugely rewarding and beneficial, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The MU can help with many aspects of working overseas when you are a touring band or travelling musician.

Guidance on international touring

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Members can access Viva La Visa's free advice line for guidance on visas, work permits and travel documentation for touring abroad.

Working in the EU

Guidance, resources and latest information on touring, performing and working in European Union

Working in the USA

Get advice on acquiring a valid work permit and any associated visa when touring in United States

Travelling with Music Instruments

Learn about policies on transportation of music gear, precautions for instruments made of rare materials, instrument passports and permits

Orchestral Touring

Travel Advice for LGBT+ Musicians

Risk Assessments on Tour

Live Performing Abroad

International news and features

A female musician with a guitar performing at a festival to a crowd in Austin, Texas.

New Report Reveals PRS Foundation's International Showcase Fund Provides Vital Support for UK Artists

PRS Foundation have released a new impact report demonstrating how the International Showcase Fund (ISF) helps music creators across the country to develop their careers and contribute to the wider UK economy.

Published: 24 October 2024

A hand stamping a passport at border control.

An Update on Electronic Entry and Exit Systems for the EU and UK

The EU Commission has announced that the launch date for the EU's new Entry/Exit System, initially planned for 10 November, has been delayed.

Published: 22 October 2024

Naomi Pohl speaking at the Trades Union Congress 2024 event.

Trades Union Congress Backs Renegotiation of EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement

The TUC voted for a motion highlighting the impact of Brexit on creative industries and calling on the TUC to campaign for a renegotiation of the UK-EU deal.

Published: 10 September 2024

Passport with a US Visa against the background of a flag and map of the United States.

An Update on US Visa Processing Times for Musicians Working Overseas

Dave Webster, MU Head of International, provides an overview of the current situation regarding US Visas, outlining fee increases and potentially severe processing delays.

Published: 05 September 2024

A fiddle player playing with an accordion player as part of a folk music performance.

Take Part in European Folk Day on 23 September

Folk musicians are encouraged to take part in the 2nd annual European Folk Day taking place on 23 September 2024.

Published: 22 August 2024

Read all international news

What we do for musicians working internationally

Every musician will look at working in the European Union, USA or around the world at some point in their career. MU Head of International Dave Webster explains how the MU can support you in your overseas work, and what we’re doing to make your voice heard in government.

Member benefits for musicians working internationally

Worldwide Instrument Insurance

If you are travelling abroad – as a freelance musician or with an orchestra – ensure that your insurance is activated before you travel.

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Access Viva La Visa's free advice line for guidance on visas, work permits or travel documentation for touring abroad. Members also receive a 20% discount on any services.

Discounts on ATA Carnets

MU members requiring ATA Carnets for travel can take advantage of exclusive discounts from LCC or Boomerang

Contract Advisory Service

Protect yourself against unpaid fees by making sure that your tour or engagement is covered by a written contract. Have it vetted by the MU for added peace of mind.

Professional Advice for US Visa Issues

We partner with professional organisations that offer free guidance and discounted services to MU members

Travel Insurance

Overseas Taxation and National Insurance

Touring advice

Webinar recording

Music Export Growth Scheme: Advice Webinar on Funding Overseas Tours

This webinar from The British Phonographic Industry (BPI), who run the MEGS scheme, gives information and advice on the application process for musicians looking to fund an overseas tour.

Quick tips

8 Things You Need to Know Before Going on Tour

Touring is an integral part of many musicians’ careers, but it can be more complicated than simply turning up to perform.

Webinar recording

MIC and Border Crossing Explained

The Animal Plant Health Authority (APHA) and UK Border Force explains the latest guidance on MIC, and how to travel with musical instruments containing CITES-listed controlled endangered species.

Member-only

Eating Healthily on Tour

Learn how touring musicians can maintain a healthy diet and avoid the temptations of motorway services and takeaways.

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Use your voice

Popular searches

Working Overseas

Guidance on international touring

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Working in the EU

Working in the USA

Travelling with Music Instruments

Orchestral Touring

Travel Advice for LGBT+ Musicians

Risk Assessments on Tour

Live Performing Abroad

International news and features

New Report Reveals PRS Foundation's International Showcase Fund Provides Vital Support for UK Artists

An Update on Electronic Entry and Exit Systems for the EU and UK

Trades Union Congress Backs Renegotiation of EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement

An Update on US Visa Processing Times for Musicians Working Overseas

Take Part in European Folk Day on 23 September

What we do for musicians working internationally

Member benefits for musicians working internationally

Worldwide Instrument Insurance

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Discounts on ATA Carnets

Contract Advisory Service

Professional Advice for US Visa Issues

Travel Insurance

Overseas Taxation and National Insurance

Touring advice

Music Export Growth Scheme: Advice Webinar on Funding Overseas Tours

8 Things You Need to Know Before Going on Tour

MIC and Border Crossing Explained

Eating Healthily on Tour