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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a CWA and why do I need one?

A Central Withholding Agreement (CWA) is a contract between a non-U.S. artist, the IRS, and a U.S.-based withholding agent (that's us!). Without a CWA, the IRS withholds 30% of your U.S. performance income. Happy Trails prepares and submits CWA applications and liaisons with the IRS on your behalf, getting you sorted.

Who needs a U.S. artist visa?

If you’re performing, recording, or promoting your work in the U.S. and earning income, you must enter on an approved O-1, P-1, or P-3 visa. Happy Trails serves as an authorized U.S. petitioner or coordinating agent for eligible international performers under federal regulations, managing petition logistics and timelines to keep the process smooth from start to finish.

Can you help with Asia tour visas?

Yes. We assist with entry permits, work visas, and documentation for Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Taiwan, Thailand, and more. We coordinate with trusted partners on the ground to ensure country-specific compliance.

What services do you offer?

We provide full-service support for CWA application preparation and submission — including IRS communication and timeline management — as well as U.S. visa coordination, serving as a U.S. petitioner or coordinating agent for eligible international performers under federal regulations. We also assist with Asia visa guidance and document preparation, and offer pre-tour compliance planning covering routing, timing, and tax logistics.

How much do your services cost?

Pricing depends on the number of artists, countries involved, and timeline. We offer clear, flat-rate quotes with no hidden fees. Most CWA or visa support services start at $500–$1,500 per engagement. Multi-service or multi-artist packages are available.

How early do I start the process?

As early as possible! CWA applications: at least 45–60 days before the first U.S. show U.S. visas: 60–120+ days before entry Asia visas: timelines vary. Some countries require submission 30+ days before the first show. Contact us the moment a tour is confirmed — we’ll help build a realistic compliance timeline.

Email us today! info@happytrailsvisas.coml us at info@happytrailsvisa.com to schedule a free consult. We'll respond within 24 hours.il us at info@happytrailsvisa.com to schedule a free consult. We'll respond within 24 hours.

VISA + CWA SERVICES FOR TOURING ARTISTS

VISA + CWA SERVICES

FOR TOURING ARTISTS