Entertainer Visa class now has six visa types available online on the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority (PNGICSA) website (www.ica.gov.pg) for the convenience of international artists, film makers, comedians, musicians and cultural groups.
This was announced by the Minister for Immigration and Border Security, John Rosso recently.
The visa classes available and accessible online include Film Maker (commercial & non-commercial), Comedian (commercial), Musician (commercial), Gospel Group (charity) and Cultural Group (charity).
Minister Rosso said, the inclusion of six different visas available on the PNGICSA website allows international artists who want to come to PNG for entertainment-related purposes to apply online instead of the traditional paper lodgment.
“The previous process required the entertainers to physically lodge their visa applications at the PNG diplomatic mission.”
“This was unsuitable considering that the country does not have diplomatic representation in all countries.”
“Entertainers are often on tour and in countries which might have missions for only a night or two. Finding time to submit applications in that manner was impractical.”
He added that each of the visa types includes a migration service fee attached and holders are eligible for extensions.
Rosso believes this new arrangement would allow PNG to bring in world class artists as well as develop local talent and promote the entertainment industry.
Minister Rosso who is also Deputy Prime Minister stated that the government is advocating for digital transformation, and he supports PNGICSA’s efforts to digitize its services to ensure visitors have access to apply for visas in the comfort of their homes and travel to PNG without any needless delays.