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

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

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.

Travelling with Music Instruments

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

Risk Assessments on Tour

Orchestral Touring

Travel Advice for LGBT+ Musicians

Live Performing Abroad

International news and features

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl on stage at TUC 2025, addressing delegates about the motion on AI and the creative industries.

MU Motions on AI and EU Touring Pass at Trade Union Congress 2025

This week, the MU attended the annual TUC Congress, where our motions on key issues including AI, copyright reform and post-Brexit EU touring all passed unanimously.

Published: 10 September 2025

A hand holding the new blue British passport.

Launch Confirmed for Electronic Entry and Exit Systems for the EU and UK

The EES, an automated IT system that will modernise border control and replace passport stamping, is finally set to launch in October 2025. These changes will impact musicians crossing both UK and EU borders.

Published: 26 August 2025

Close up of the American flag with a burst of sunlight.

US Artist Visa Update – August

An update for musicians travelling to the US, covering proposed changes to ESTA fees and further delays in O and P visa processing.

Published: 26 August 2025

A handmade sign painted in the Palestinian flag colours with text that says

MU Releases Statement Condemning Genocide in Gaza

The Musicians' Union opposes and fully condemns the genocide being committed against the Palestinian people, and we are taking action to protect and defend musicians' right to free speech and peaceful protest.

Published: 21 August 2025

A line of passengers in an airport queuing to go through a security scanner.

MU Reaches Agreement with Heathrow on Handling of Musical Instruments

Musicians travelling with instruments through Heathrow can now expect the airport to act in accordance with guidelines agreed by the MU.

Published: 05 August 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

Working in the EU

Working in the USA

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Travelling with Music Instruments

Risk Assessments on Tour

Orchestral Touring

Travel Advice for LGBT+ Musicians

Live Performing Abroad

International news and features

MU Motions on AI and EU Touring Pass at Trade Union Congress 2025

Launch Confirmed for Electronic Entry and Exit Systems for the EU and UK

US Artist Visa Update – August

MU Releases Statement Condemning Genocide in Gaza

MU Reaches Agreement with Heathrow on Handling of Musical Instruments

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