Many American orchestras state that all auditionees must verify legal work docs if one wins the audition. If one wins the audition but does not have such docs, is there anyway to obtain legal working status shortly after the audition or will the orchestra not bother waiting and give the job to the runner-up?

Similarly, orchestras outside of the USA often state things like "national auditions" or "open to international applicants". For a "national audition", can a foreigner take the audition or should not bother?

Thanks for any feedback.

It's my impression (though my direct experience is limited to a few friends who have had to obtain working visas) that most American orchestras are well aware of the roadblocks the US government throws up in front of immigrants, and that they do what they can to give winning candidates time and support through the process. Most foreign candidates auditioning for American orchestras do not begin the process of applying for an O-1 visa (Alien of Extraordinary Ability) until after winning a job, unless they have previously lived or worked in the US. A lawyer is a near-necessity in the visa process, and the fees and paperwork can easily run $5000-$8000. (The visa will also have to be renewed annually, unless you decide to apply for a green card.)

For orchestras advertising national auditions, they generally mean it. You must either be a citizen of that country or already have landed status and a work permit in order to audition.