|
Those who qualify for I-Visa status are representatives of the media.
Criteria:
- Bona fide representative.
- Of foreign press, radio, film or other foreign information media.
- Includes not only primary employees of foreign information media
engaged in filming news events or documentaries, but also employees of
independent production companies if the employees either:
- hold a credential issued by a professional journalistic association; or
- if no such credential is available because the sending country has
no credentialing authority or the authority does not offer
credentialing to the class of media representatives to which the
employees belong.
- Does not include film production/distribution unless film is informational or educational.
- Television included. Private production crews where film will be
distributed for information or news not commercial entertainment are
also included.
- If producing for commercial entertainment/advertising purpose,
camera crew and other workers obtain O-1 and O-2 visas even if no U.S.
remuneration and film solely for foreign distribution.
- Foreign press includes a foreign press owned by U.S. shareholders
if staffed in large part by non-Americans to collect information for
foreign audience. I visa holder may be employed by a U.S. branch office
or U.S. subsidiary of the foreign company provided his or her
activities are being conducted principally for the benefit of the
foreign-based media.
3. Entering solely to engage in vocation.
4. Only
if "home office" is in foreign country (foreign correspondent for New
York Times needs L/H visa).
5.
Overstay--Not subject to INA §222(g) until there is finding of
unauthorized stay by IJ or USCIS because I visa holders are given
D/S upon entry.
Conditions of entry
Reciprocity between U.S. and home country. Cannot enter on a B visa or on a visa waiver to perform I functions. |
