UK Citizen attending and filming Conference in the USA on Visa Waiver Program
I'm a UK Citizen, filmmaker, travelling to the USA to visit a conference and do some filming of the event to add to some videos I'm making for the client back in the UK. It's a UK Based client.
Does that count as business so I can use an ESTA, Visa Waiver? Or do I need to get a specific visa for this? I'm only going to be filming for a couple of days and not getting paid for the filming, It's to add to the edits I’m doing in the UK which I'm obviously being paid for. Does this count as business? It's all a little confusing? If it helps I'm indulging in tourism after the event for a few days so my trip is a mixture of business and pleasure. I just don't want to arrive at the airport with my cameras and be told I'm actually in need of a visa.
Anyone with any experience or advice, I'd appreciate your input.
Best Answer
I would suggest that you contact the US embassy or consulate closest to you because the nuance of the reason to travel might make you require a Foreign Press credentials.
If you look at the State Department's Visa Waiver Page it states:
Travel Purposes Not Permitted on Visa Waiver Program – Examples:
These are some examples of activities not permitted on the VWP and require visas for travel to the United States:.
- study, for credit
- employment
- work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
- permanent residence in the United States
Which your purpose for visit might fall under this guideline. If the consulate deems that it does fall under this guideline you may have to obtain an I visa which is specifically designed for:
A member of the media engaged in the production or distribution of film, if the material being filmed will be used to disseminate information, news, or is educational in nature. The primary source and distribution of funding must be outside the United States.
But a consulate official might be a better source for this determination especially so if you will be carrying professional equipment with you.
Pictures about "UK Citizen attending and filming Conference in the USA on Visa Waiver Program"
Does the UK participate in the Visa Waiver Program?
An EVW lets you visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, business, study or medical treatment. If you're visiting for another reason, check if you need a visa instead. You must apply between 3 months and 48 hours before you travel.Do you need a visa to film in USA?
A media visa cannot be used by applicants whose purpose of travel to the U.S. is to film, or work on a film, intended primarily for commercial entertainment or advertising purposes. A temporary worker visa is required.How long can you stay in U.S. on Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP), administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in consultation with the State Department, permits citizens of 40 countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.Who is eligible for U.S. Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries* to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.Five Mistakes NOT to Make at your Immigration Interview
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