A Special “Model Visa” In The U.S?

This is good news for modeling in the United States. A New York congressman, Rep. Anthony Weiner, has proposed a bill that make it easier for foreign models to work in the United States.

The congressman's bill will allow models to switch from the current H-1B visa to the far easier-to-attain P visa. Unlike the P-visa that cast models with entertainers and athletes, H-1B visa makes models compete with doctors and computer analysts to secure one.

Rep. Weiner said that models are important to the New York economy. Without them, American models aren't drafted in and photoshoots are simply shot overseas instead.

"From Fashion Week to our vibrant publishing industry to the many designers that call New York City home, fashion is a vital part of our economy that drives thousands of jobs," says Weiner.

U.S. fashion industry is supportive to the cause of the New York Congressman. A president of a modeling company says “If there are girls that we can't get into the United States, the client is going to take that business elsewhere. The market is calling for foreign girls... Not just any old model will be allowed in though - there will be strict guidelines. For instance, the visa applicant must be "a fashion model of distinguished merit and ability."

Therefore, ordinary models may still find it hard to secure the special model visa.

On the other hand, Rep. Weiner is reportedly dating Hillary Clinton's aide who was featured in the recent issue of Vogue. For the 43-year old congressman who proposed the special model visa in the U.S., this is a beautiful inspiration, indeed.