Transit and Ship Crew Visas (C and D) are non-immigrant visas designed for individuals who need to pass through the United States or work temporarily on a vessel or aircraft in the U.S.
- C Visa: For individuals who need to travel through the U.S. on their way to another country.
- D Visa: For crew members who work on board sea vessels or international airlines operating in the U.S.
Key Features
C Visa (Transit Visa)
D Visa (Crewmember Visa)
C Visa (Transit Visa)
- Purpose: To allow travelers to transit through the U.S. en route to another country.
- Duration: Typically valid for the duration of the transit, usually a few days.
- No Work Authorization: Does not allow the holder to work or stay in the U.S. beyond the transit period.
D Visa (Crewmember Visa)
- Purpose: To allow crew members to work on vessels or aircraft operating in the U.S.
- Duration: Typically valid for up to 29 days per entry.
- Multiple Entries: Often issued as a multiple-entry visa, allowing repeated entries into the U.S. during its validity period.
- Work Authorization: Holders can perform duties related to their role on the vessel or aircraft.
Eligibility Criteria
General Eligibility
- Intention: Must intend to transit through the U.S. (C visa) or work on a vessel/aircraft in the U.S. (D visa).
- Nonimmigrant Intent: Must demonstrate that they do not intend to immigrate to the U.S.
Specific Eligibility for C Visa
Specific Eligibility for D Visa
Specific Eligibility for C Visa
- Valid Travel Arrangements: Must have a confirmed ticket to a final destination outside the U.S.
- Valid Documentation: Must hold a valid visa or other entry documentation for the next country of destination, if required.
- Purpose of Transit: The sole purpose of entering the U.S. must be for transit to another country.
Specific Eligibility for D Visa
- Employment: Must be employed as a crew member on a vessel or aircraft that travels to the U.S.
- Temporary Stay: Must intend to enter the U.S. temporarily for the purpose of performing work as a crew member.
- Home-Country Residence: Must demonstrate intent to return to their home country after completing their duties in the U.S.
Required Documents
C Visa (Transit Visa)
D Visa (Crewmember Visa)
C Visa (Transit Visa)
- Form DS-160: Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the U.S.
- Photograph: A recent photograph meeting U.S. visa requirements.
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed itinerary including confirmed tickets to the final destination.
- Visa for Next Destination: If required, a valid visa or entry documentation for the next country of destination.
- Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the transit period.
D Visa (Crewmember Visa)
- Form DS-160: Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the U.S.
- Photograph: A recent photograph meeting U.S. visa requirements.
- Employment Letter: A letter from the employer or shipping company verifying employment and detailing the nature and duration of duties.
- Seafarer’s Identification (if applicable): For sea vessel crew members, a seafarer’s book or other proof of maritime employment.
- Previous U.S. Visas (if applicable): Copies of any previous U.S. visas held.
- Itinerary: Travel itinerary detailing the ship or aircraft schedule, including dates and ports of entry and departure.
Application Process
- Complete Form DS-160: Fill out and submit the DS-160 form online.
- Pay Visa Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
- Schedule Visa Interview: Schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including passport, photograph, travel itinerary, employment letter (D visa), and seafarer’s identification (if applicable).
- Attend Visa Interview: Attend the visa interview and answer questions about your travel or employment plans.
- Visa Decision: The consular officer will make a decision based on the interview and submitted documents.
- Receive Visa: If approved, receive your visa and prepare for your trip to the U.S.
Costs
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | $185 |
Visa Processing Time
- Processing Time: Typically varies from a few days to several weeks, depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate and the applicant’s circumstances.
Key Points to Remember
- Temporary Stay: Both C and D visas are for temporary stays related to transit or work as a crew member.
- Nonimmigrant Intent: Must demonstrate nonimmigrant intent and strong ties to the home country.
- Compliance: Follow all visa regulations to maintain status and avoid violations that could affect future U.S. visa applications.
Conclusion
The C (Transit) and D (Crewmember) visas are essential for individuals needing to transit through the U.S. or work temporarily on a vessel or aircraft operating in the U.S. By meeting the eligibility criteria, providing the required documentation, and following the application process carefully, applicants can obtain these visas and carry out their respective activities while complying with U.S. visa regulations.
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