M.I.A. Slams US Government for Visa Delays Amid Border Crisis

M.I.A. has posted to Twitter to express her frustration with her visa delays amid the current border crisis in the United States. 

It is not common for us to hear about the many issues international artists may face coming to the United States. But, recently, a well-known electronic dance music artist has given a glimpse into the system and its flaws. M.I.A. uses her social media platforms to share her frustration over visa delays amid the border crisis in the United States. 

From January 25th to January 27th, the artist took to Twitter to share her struggles in obtaining a visa to enter the United States. In her tweets, she goes into further detail to explain the many delays and bureaucratic obstacles she has encountered throughout the way.  Also, she expresses her frustration. While also, questioning the fairness and efficiency of the visa application process. As musical talent, this is especially something many foreign talents rely on for seamless travel for their professional commitments. So, without it, fans may not be able to see their favorite artists in the States. 

M.I.A did not hold back in criticizing the US government amidst the ongoing border crisis. In response to another tweet on the border crisis, she speaks up. She states “So dramatic, I applied, still waiting day 60 for my visa to be processed and my son is American. You’ve let me in since my arrest in 1995 like 100 times. Yet you are about to have a war over immigration spend the money processing applications the right way faster.” 

Certainly, the tweets shared by M.I.A. shed light on a larger issue. One that is faced by not only artists but many international citizens. With the tightening of borders and changes in immigration policies, artists often find themselves caught up in administrative red tape. So, that limits their ability to collaborate with other artists. But also, to share their art throughout the world. M.I.A.’s outspoken stance highlights the impact these delays can have on anyone trying to get into the States.

Fans seem to respect M.I.A.’s openness to such a public matter. Her public condemnation of the US government’s visa delays amidst the border crisis highlights something larger than the music industry. But also shows the challenges faced by artists navigating bureaucratic issues when they are outside of the United States. Fans hope for better news for M.I.A. as she continues to wait for her visa to process.