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

Birdseye view of feet staring down at an EU flag on the ground, representing a border.

EU-UK Summit: Early Outcomes and What it Means for MU Members

The MU welcomes early signs of progress on cultural mobility at the first EU-UK Summit, including youth mobility and faster border access, but calls for further action to ensure musicians are properly supported in post-Brexit negotiations.

Published: 21 May 2025

EU and UK flags flying in front of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament at Westminster Palace, London.

Open Letter Calls for Action on Post-Brexit Touring Barriers Ahead of EU-UK Summit

As over 500 UK and EU music organisations back an open letter to political leaders, MU Head of International Dave Webster updates members on the growing industry pressure to fix post-Brexit touring barriers, ahead of key EU-UK talks.

Published: 14 May 2025

Male musician composing an electronic music score at a computer and laptop.

MU Raises Concerns Over Potential Impact of US Film Tariffs on UK Musicians

Although deals are yet to be agreed, the imposition of tariffs on films produced outside of the US could severely impact the UK’s film and television industry, which currently invests around £80m in musicians.

Published: 13 May 2025

Person performing on stage in a wheelchair, singing into a microphone with the band behind them, golden confetti streaming around them.

Apply Now: International Showcasing and Mobility Opportunities for 2026

Members can now apply to showcase at Folk Alliance International in New Orleans, and Eurosonic in Groningen 2026. Plus a new pilot programme to support mobility and exchange across the Nordic region, UK and Ireland is opening this August.

Published: 09 May 2025

Sign inside an airport saying U.S. Customers and Border Protection.

Watch Arts Info Point’s Advice Webinar on Touring and Travelling in the USA

Members wishing to understand more about entering the US, following recent press reports and administrative changes, can now watch the recording of a recent webinar hosted by Arts Info Point.

Published: 24 April 2025

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

Advice on Touring and Travelling in the USA

Members wishing to understand more about entering the US, following recent press reports and administrative changes, can now watch the recording of a recent webinar hosted by Arts Info Point.

Webinar recording

Advice 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.

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.

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.

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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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

EU-UK Summit: Early Outcomes and What it Means for MU Members

Open Letter Calls for Action on Post-Brexit Touring Barriers Ahead of EU-UK Summit

MU Raises Concerns Over Potential Impact of US Film Tariffs on UK Musicians

Apply Now: International Showcasing and Mobility Opportunities for 2026

Watch Arts Info Point’s Advice Webinar on Touring and Travelling in the USA

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

Advice on Touring and Travelling in the USA

Advice on Funding Overseas Tours

MIC and Border Crossing Explained

8 Things You Need to Know Before Going on Tour

Eating Healthily on Tour