Dessa’s Midwest Concerts Impacted by Visa Denials for South African Collaborators

Dessa’s South African collaborators were denied U.S. visas amid tougher artist visa rules, delaying Midwest concerts and jeopardizing cultural exchange. Since April 2024, USCIS increased fees, paperwork, and security checks, contributing to many canceled 2025 U.S. artist tours and greater difficulties for international performers.

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Key takeaways

Dessa’s 29:11 Ensemble South African collaborators denied U.S. visas, altering Midwest concerts starting July 29, 2025.
USCIS increased fees, paperwork, and security checks on O and P artist visas since April 2024.
Interview waivers limited since January 2025; DS-160 form rules cause delays; many artists cancel 2025 U.S. tours.

Dessa’s Midwest concerts face major changes after U.S. visa denials for her South African collaborators, the 29:11 Ensemble. As of July 29, 2025, Dessa will perform in Minneapolis, Sioux Falls, and Earlham without the 29:11 Ensemble, while shows in Chicago and Madison are postponed to December, hoping visa issues will be resolved by then.

The 29:11 Ensemble, a 12-member choir and band rooted in South African traditions, was set to join Dessa for concerts, workshops, and church events in Minnesota. Dessa called the visa denial a “garbage update” on social media, sharing her heartbreak and frustration. She stressed the group’s cultural value and their history of successful U.S. tours, saying, “It’s a loss for everyone who values music and cultural exchange.”

Dessa’s Midwest Concerts Impacted by Visa Denials for South African Collaborators
Dessa’s Midwest Concerts Impacted by Visa Denials for South African Collaborators

These U.S. visa denials are not isolated. Since April 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made it harder for international artists to perform in the United States 🇺🇸. New rules include higher fees, stricter paperwork, and more security checks for artist visas, especially O and P categories. The current administration’s focus on security and reducing the federal workforce has led to more delays and unexplained rejections.

As of January 17, 2025, interview waivers for O and P visas are only available to those who held the same visa category within the last 12 months. This makes it much harder for groups like the 29:11 Ensemble to return, even if they have a strong record of following U.S. rules. Visa application fees have also increased, and applicants must use the latest version of Form I-129, which can be found on the official USCIS website.

Consular processing now requires all DS-160 forms to be submitted at least two business days before interviews, and the barcode must match the interview booking. Any mistake leads to automatic rescheduling, causing further delays. While new social media vetting rules mainly affect student and exchange visas, they show a trend toward more scrutiny for all visa applicants.

💡 Tip
If you’re an artist planning to tour the U.S., ensure you submit your DS-160 forms at least two business days before your interview to avoid rescheduling and delays.

The impact goes beyond Dessa and the 29:11 Ensemble. Many international artists have canceled or postponed U.S. tours in 2025 due to visa problems. Advocacy groups like Tamizdat report a sharp rise in artist visa denials and delays, blaming policy changes, fee hikes, and stricter vetting. As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes threaten the future of cultural exchange and live performances in the United States 🇺🇸.

Artists and promoters face financial losses and missed opportunities, while U.S. officials say the changes are needed for national security. Advocacy groups warn that continued restrictions could harm the country’s cultural life and reputation.

⚠️ Important
Be aware that recent visa policy changes may lead to increased fees and stricter documentation requirements, potentially complicating your ability to perform in the U.S.

For now, Dessa’s postponed shows may be rescheduled if visa issues are resolved, but uncertainty remains. Those needing help with the artist visa process should check the USCIS official site for updates or contact Tamizdat for support.

The 29:11 Ensemble’s visa denial marks a sharp change from past years, showing how recent U.S. policies make it much harder for international groups to share their music and culture.

Learn Today

USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency managing immigration and visa applications.
O and P visas → Special visas for international artists and performers to legally work and tour in the U.S.
Interview waiver → An exception allowing certain visa applicants to skip in-person interviews under specific conditions.
DS-160 form → Online nonimmigrant visa application form required to schedule the U.S. visa interview.
Consular processing → The procedure of applying for a visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

This Article in a Nutshell

Dessa’s upcoming Midwest concerts face major reshuffling after visa denials block her South African 29:11 Ensemble. New U.S. policies impose stricter O and P visa rules, causing delays and cancellations. These changes harm cultural exchange and live performances, leaving artists and fans uncertain about future tours and opportunities.
— By VisaVerge.com

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Shashank Singh
Breaking News Reporter
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As a Breaking News Reporter at VisaVerge.com, Shashank Singh is dedicated to delivering timely and accurate news on the latest developments in immigration and travel. His quick response to emerging stories and ability to present complex information in an understandable format makes him a valuable asset. Shashank's reporting keeps VisaVerge's readers at the forefront of the most current and impactful news in the field.
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