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

Close up of a Border Security Officer at a computer.

Updated Information and Advice for Musicians Working in the US

Tamizdat, a non-profit organisation that facilitates international cultural exchange, has provided updated advice for those entering the US, further to recent press commentary regarding increased scrutiny at ports of entry.

Published: 27 March 2025

Hungary Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQ+ Law Banning Pride Events

Hungary has passed a new anti-LGBTQ+ law that bans Pride events and allows authorities to use facial recognition software to identify those attending the festivities.

Published: 19 March 2025

A DJ performing at an outdoor festival in Croatia.

Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

The Croatian Parliament has passed amendments to the Aliens Act, meaning UK artists and crew performing or touring in Croatia for less than three months no longer need a visa and work authorisation certificates.

Published: 13 March 2025

Double bass leaning against a wooden chair.

Double Basses on French Trains – An Update

Although the absolute ban on musicians travelling with a double bass on TGV trains in France has been reversed, there are some restrictions members need to be aware of.

Published: 04 March 2025

Close up of a white t-shirt with red writing saying “Sunderland is a music city”, next to a leaflet saying “A music strategy for Sunderland 2025-2030”.

MU Congratulates Sunderland as Newest Member of the Music Cities Network

Sunderland is only the second city in the UK to join the international Music Cities Network, which offers its members collaborative opportunities, resources, and advocacy.

Published: 27 January 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

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

Updated Information and Advice for Musicians Working in the US

Hungary Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQ+ Law Banning Pride Events

Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

Double Basses on French Trains – An Update

MU Congratulates Sunderland as Newest Member of the Music Cities Network

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