The U.S. government is increasingly granting artist visas to individuals based on their follower counts on platforms like OnlyFans, according to a report by the Financial Times. The O-1 visa, designated for those demonstrating extraordinary abilities in various fields, has seen a significant uptick in applications from influencers, particularly from the adult-oriented subscription service.
Between 2014 and 2024, the issuance of O-1 visas has surged by over 50 percent, highlighting a shift in immigration criteria. While the number of O-1 visas remains much lower than the widely known H-1B visas, which cater to skilled workers, immigration attorneys have observed a notable trend: the criteria for O-1 visas have been adapted to accommodate online influencers.
Applicants can now showcase their success through easily quantifiable metrics, such as high follower counts and subscription earnings. “Officers are being handed petitions where value is framed almost entirely through algorithm-based metrics,” stated immigration attorney Shervin Abachi. This approach has led to concerns that artistic merit is being reduced to a numerical score.
The shift in focus has transformed the type of clients seeking representation. Attorneys like Michael Wildes are now more likely to represent OnlyFans performers and TikTok stars than traditional artists or musicians. Wildes, who previously represented high-profile figures such as Boy George and Sinéad O’Connor, noted significant changes in his practice. He remarked, “I knew the days of representing iconic names were over.”
The rise of influencers is prompting immigration professionals to question the implications for the arts community. Abachi referred to this phenomenon as a “structural shift” in immigration law, suggesting that the increase in influencer applications could reflect a broader transformation in how opportunities are distributed within the creative sectors.
With the normalization of follower counts as a primary metric for success, the landscape for artistic merit is evolving rapidly. This trend raises significant questions about the future of immigration policy and its alignment with traditional definitions of artistry and talent.
As the U.S. continues to adapt its immigration system, the ramifications for both artists and influencers are likely to be profound. The emphasis on social media success underscores a changing relationship between creativity and commerce, prompting ongoing discussions about the nature of artistic achievement in the digital age.
