The U.S. government is increasingly approving artist visas for individuals associated with the adult-oriented subscription service OnlyFans, particularly based on their follower counts. This surprising trend signals a shift in how the U.S. immigration system evaluates artistic merit. The popularity of these visas, known as O-1 visas, has surged, with approvals rising more than 50 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to the Financial Times.
O-1 visas are categorized into two types: O-1A for individuals demonstrating extraordinary abilities in fields such as science and business, and O-1B for artists. While the number of O-1 visas granted still lags behind the more common H-1B visas for skilled workers, immigration attorneys report that the criteria for artist visas have become more accessible. The evaluation now heavily considers social media metrics, specifically follower counts and subscription earnings, as indicators of success.
Changing Landscape for Immigration Attorneys
As a result of this evolving landscape, immigration attorneys like Shervin Abachi have observed a dramatic change in clientele. Abachi noted that visa applications are increasingly framed around “algorithm-based metrics,” where artistic merit is viewed through the lens of social media performance. This trend has led to a recalibration of how artistic success is defined and recognized.
Furthermore, attorney Michael Wildes highlighted that his practice has shifted from representing traditional artists to focusing more on influencers from platforms like OnlyFans and TikTok. He remarked, “I knew the days of representing iconic names like Boy George and Sinéad O’Connor were over.” Wildes and others estimate that influencers now constitute over half of their total caseload.
A Structural Shift in Immigration Law
The embrace of social media metrics in immigration applications reflects what Abachi describes as a “structural shift” in immigration law. He explained that the growing number of influencer filings might indicate a broader transformation in how opportunities are allocated within the U.S. immigration system. This change has raised questions about the future of artistic merit and whether it will continue to be evaluated through traditional standards or increasingly by online popularity.
The implications of this trend extend beyond individual careers. It suggests that the U.S. immigration landscape is adapting to the realities of modern digital culture, where success can be quantified by follower counts and online engagement. The emphasis on social media performance may redefine what it means to be an artist in the eyes of immigration authorities, leading to a potential reevaluation of the criteria used to assess artistic talent.
As the landscape continues to evolve, the intersection of social media and immigration law will likely remain a topic of discussion among attorneys, artists, and influencers alike. The implications could shape the future of the creative industries, as well as the pathways available for artists seeking opportunities in the United States.
