Travelling to SXSW Find out what you need to know as a musician when travelling internationally to the United States for South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival. Last updated: 12 February 2026 What musicians need to know when travelling to SXSW festival in Austin, Texas International industry professionals and musicians have a lot of questions about the legalities of entering the U.S. for SXSW festival. The Tamizdat FAQ for people travelling to SXSW 2026 will help answer some of those questions. Keep in mind that this is intended as general guidance, and not legal advice. Legal advice can only be given specific to the facts of an individual’s real-life situation, so if you have a question, please contact Tamizdat’s Artist Visa Assistance and Information Line for pro bono legal assistance. Will I be able to meet with anyone from the MU whilst at SXSW 2026? Yes. Dave Webster, MU Head of International, and Kelly Wood, MU National Organiser for Live, Theatre and Music Writers, will both be attending this year. If you would like to arrange a meeting, please email dave.webster@themu.org. Member services 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. Read more about Worldwide Instrument Insurance Professional Advice for Visa Issues We partner with professional organisations that offer free guidance and discounted services to MU members Read more about Professional Advice for Visa Issues Worldwide Public Liability Insurance Read more about Worldwide Public Liability Insurance International Tax Advice Read more about International Tax Advice Discounts on ATA Carnets MU members requiring ATA Carnets for travel can take advantage of exclusive discounts from LCC or Boomerang Read more about Discounts on ATA Carnets 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. Read more about Contract Advisory Service Travel Insurance Specialised travel insurance for individuals in the Performing & Creative Arts Read more about Travel Insurance
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. Read more about Worldwide Instrument Insurance
Professional Advice for Visa Issues We partner with professional organisations that offer free guidance and discounted services to MU members Read more about Professional Advice for Visa Issues
Discounts on ATA Carnets MU members requiring ATA Carnets for travel can take advantage of exclusive discounts from LCC or Boomerang Read more about Discounts on ATA Carnets
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. Read more about Contract Advisory Service
Travel Insurance Specialised travel insurance for individuals in the Performing & Creative Arts Read more about Travel Insurance