African and Asian artists condemn ‘humiliating’ UK and EU visa refusals

Emma Nzioka, who performs as DJ Coco Em, said applying for UK and EU visas was complicated, costly and unequal. Photograph: Courtesy of Coco Em

Musicians, authors, producers and festival managers have hit out at “humiliating” and costly visa-rejection rates for African and Asian artists visiting Britain and European Union countries, saying it is having a chilling impact on cultural diversity.

Analysis shows the UK last year raised £44m in fees for visa applications that were then rejected, mainly coming from low- and middle-income countries. The EU made €130m (£110m).