Non Immigrant Visas

Transit & Crew Visas

The transit visa (C1) is issued to foreign nationals proceeding immediately through the United States to a foreign destination. Travelers who have a valid B1/B2 visa do not need a special transit visa. Transit visa applicants must establish that they must pass through the United States to a foreign destination. It is recommended that an applicant secure a visa for the final destination before applying for a U.S. transit visa. Applicants for transit visas must also establish that they do not intend to immigrate to the United States.

Crew members of maritime vessels or aircraft will typically apply for a C1/D visa. For example, the most commonly issued C1/D visas are to crewmembers of cruise liners and include, but are not limited to beauticians, entertainers, and lifeguards.

Foreign nationals in the U.S. with a transit and crew visa are not permitted to change their status to that of tourist, student, or exchange visitor.

Click here to view what forms and documents an applicant must bring.

To qualify for a C1/D visa, applicants must also bring an original contract signed by the employer and their original seaman's book. The employer must also confirm the employment either by fax 021-200-3381 or by email (ROseamen@state.gov).

For any visa-related question not answered on the consular section’s website, applicants may refer to the A-Z Subject Index or send a message to the following email address: VisasBucharest@state.gov. In most cases, the message will be answered within 3 business days.

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