New UK Touring Rules Will Bite Large Groups Hard

Major changes are being proposed to the rules governing international touring groups who want to perform in Great Britain. “At present, non-EU touring stars can ‘sign in’ an army of musicians, bodyguards and manicurists on one temporary work permit… Under changes proposed by the Home Office any person wishing to travel to Britain as part of a touring group will have to make an individual application at a British consulate in their home country.” The new permit applications will cost £100 per person, where the group permits now cost only £153. Critics fear that large groups such as orchestras may cross Britain off their schedules rather than jump through the new hoops.