US Visas Now Granted to OnlyFans Creators and Influencers
An increasing number of U.S. visas for artists deemed to have “extraordinary talent” are now going to OnlyFans creators and social media influencers.
This visa, originally designed to help figures like John Lennon stay in the U.S., is now being utilized by individuals such as a star from “Bop House,” who has come to the country to create adult content.
In recent years, more than half of those applying for the sought-after O-1B visas are performers on adult platforms or online influencers, according to insights shared with the Florida Phoenix.
“Social media influencers are generating significant income, far beyond just cat videos,” said Miami attorney Joe Bovino, noting that around 65% of his clients pursuing O-1B visas are content creators online.
Yanet Garcia, a prominent OnlyFans model originally from Mexico, recently celebrated her status as a permanent resident in the U.S. while living in New York. However, it’s unclear what visa she used.
Other influencers working in the U.S. include Canadian Aisha Sofay, part of the Florida “Bop House,” and Joyi May, a former member from China. They have all built massive followings on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and OnlyFans, the latter being known for hosting explicit content.
“Making money on these platforms can be a basis for a visa application,” Bovino commented.
The O-1B visa, one of the most challenging to obtain, was established around 1972, prompted by concerns over losing talented artists like Lennon. By 1990, it formalized a process to attract high-caliber talent in the arts and entertainment industries.
Applicants must demonstrate extraordinary ability or achievement, such as significant roles in recognizable productions or high earnings in their field.
While originally intended for actors, musicians, and visual artists, social media influencers have begun to qualify by showcasing their income, brand partnerships, and follower counts, according to legal experts.
“The era of defending iconic figures is largely over,” remarked New York attorney Michael Wilde, whose father helped Lennon with his case. He noted that the pandemic has shifted focus to what he calls “scroll kings and queens.”
Since 2017, the State Department has issued 125,351 O-1 visas, though it remains unclear how many pertain to social media influencers, with many lawyers supporting applicants from nations like China, Russia, and Canada.
Applications from OnlyFans performers for O-1B visas have seen a slight decline since 2022, as some legal experts argue that the market is becoming crowded. There is concern that this trend could undermine a program intended for truly exceptional talents.
“Certain individuals are receiving O-1 approval who maybe shouldn’t,” cautioned immigration lawyer Protima Daryanani, suggesting that the category has become diluted as more people apply.
Some express apprehension that evaluating “extraordinary ability” through engagement metrics could negatively impact the arts, with New York attorney Shervin Abachi arguing that artistic merit is being reduced to mere scores driven by algorithms.
