Traveling through the United States can be a necessity for many international travelers heading to other destinations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing a transit visa for the United States, commonly known as the C visa.
What is a US Transit Visa?
A US Transit Visa, or C visa, is designed for individuals who are passing through the United States en route to another country. It allows you to legally enter the US for a short duration during your layover. The key to understanding this visa is recognizing that it is not intended for tourism, business meetings, or lengthy stays.
Types of Transit Visas
- C1 Visa: This general transit visa is for those who need to stop in the US while heading to another country.
- C2 Visa: Issued to those heading to the United Nations Headquarters in New York, allowing stay only within the vicinity of the U.N. headquarters.
- C3 Visa: For foreign government officials transiting through the US to another destination on official duties.
C1 Visa: General Transit Visa
The C1 visa is designed for non-U.S. citizens who are transiting through the United States en route to another country. It’s the most common type among the transit visas and covers general transit purposes.
- Eligibility: The key criterion for a C1 visa is that the applicant is traveling to a foreign destination and needs to stop in the U.S. during the journey. This visa is strictly for passing through and does not permit extended stays or changes to other visa statuses.
- Duration: Usually, C1 visa holders can stay in the U.S. during their layover, but the maximum duration permitted is typically limited to 29 days or less, based on the onward travel schedule.
- Restrictions: Holders are not allowed to change their visa status, seek employment, or extend their stay in the U.S. beyond the transit period.
C2 Visa: U.N. Headquarters Transit Visa
Specifically tailored for individuals who need to visit the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the C2 visa facilitates transit through the U.S. for this purpose. This includes both visitors and officials who are attending meetings or any business at the U.N.
- Eligibility: Applicants must either be representatives of a member state of the U.N., workers of the U.N., or individuals invited by the U.N. for the purpose of conducting official business at the headquarters. The visa is also given to immediate family members of these representatives if they are accompanying them.
- Duration and Geographical Limitation: The C2 visa is highly restrictive geographically, confining visa holders to the vicinity of the U.N. headquarters in New York City only. The visit should also be scheduled to line up with the specific dates of the U.N. meeting or event.
- Restrictions: The visitors cannot travel outside the designated area around the U.N. headquarters and are considered to be in continuous transit, which limits their activities to only those related to U.N. business.
C3 Visa: Foreign Government Officials in Transit
The C3 visa is specific to foreign government officials and their attendants, servants, or personal employees transiting through the U.S. en route to another country on official government business.
- Eligibility: This visa is exclusive to government officials traveling to perform duties or to represent their government in another country, as well as their accompanying staff, provided the travel is on official government business.
- Duration: Like the C1 visa, the duration of stay for C3 visa holders is typically short, usually restricted to the time necessary to travel across U.S. territory to reach their destination.
- Restrictions: Those traveling on a C3 visa cannot change their visa status or undertake activities not related to their transit purpose. They are also barred from extending their stay beyond the permitted transit period.
Each transit visa type—C1, C2, and C3—serves specific transit needs and comes with distinct eligibility criteria, durations of stay, and restrictions. These visas are crucial for facilitating the smooth passage of international travelers, officials, and diplomats through the U.S. while ensuring adherence to U.S. immigration laws. Anyone planning to transit through the U.S. should carefully determine which transit visa category fits their travel and purpose to ensure compliance and a hassle-free journey.
Do I need a Transit Visa?
Exemptions to US Transit Visa Requirements
You will be exempt from the US transit visa requirements only in the following cases:
- You are a national of one of the 41 countries under the US Visa Waiver Program.
- You carry one of the valid visas as mentioned below.
What Are the 41 Visa Waiver Countries?
The 41 Visa Waiver Countries are as follows, allowing their nationals to transit through the US under specific conditions without needing a transit visa:
- 🇦🇩 Andorra (1991)
- 🇦🇺 Australia (1996)
- 🇦🇹 Austria (1991)
- 🇧🇪 Belgium (1991)
- 🇧🇳 Brunei (1993)
- 🇨🇱 Chile (2014)
- 🇨🇿 Czechia (2008)
- 🇩🇰 Denmark (1991)
- 🇪🇪 Estonia (2008)
- 🇫🇮 Finland (1991)
- 🇫🇷 France (1989)
- 🇩🇪 Germany (1989)
- 🇬🇷 Greece (2010)
- 🇭🇺 Hungary (2008)
- 🇮🇸 Iceland (1991)
- 🇮🇪 Ireland (1995)
- 🇮🇹 Italy (1989)
- 🇮🇱 Israel (2023)
- 🇯🇵 Japan (1988)
- 🇰🇷 South Korea (2008)
- 🇱🇻 Latvia (2008)
- 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein (1991)
- 🇱🇹 Lithuania (2008)
- 🇱🇺 Luxembourg (1991)
- 🇲🇹 Malta (2008)
- 🇲🇨 Monaco (1991)
- 🇳🇱 Netherlands (1989)
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand (1991)
- 🇳🇴 Norway (1991)
- 🇵🇱 Poland (2019)
- 🇵🇹 Portugal (1999)
- 🇸🇲 San Marino (1991)
- 🇸🇬 Singapore (1999)
- 🇸🇰 Slovakia (2008)
- 🇸🇮 Slovenia (1997)
- 🇪🇸 Spain (1991)
- 🇸🇪 Sweden (1989)
- 🇨🇭 Switzerland (1989)
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan (2012)
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom (1988)
- 🇭🇷 Croatia (2021)
Nationals of the above-listed countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program may transit the U.S. without a transit visa, subject to obtaining an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to their travel.
Beyond being a national from one of the countries in the Visa Waiver Program, you can also be exempt from requiring a specific US transit visa (C visa) if you hold a valid US visa of another type. Here’s a list of some common US visa types, any of which is valid and allows you to transit through the USA without needing an additional C visa:
- B-1 Visa: For business visitors traveling for consultations, meetings, negotiations, and other legitimate activities of a commercial or professional nature.
- B-2 Visa: For tourists on holiday, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment, social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations.
- F-1 and M-1 Visas: For students approved to study in the U.S. at an accredited educational institution (F-1 is for academic institutions, M-1 is for vocational institutions).
- H-1B Visa: For employees in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialized fields.
- J-1 Visa: For exchange visitors participating in an approved program for teaching, lecturing, studying, conducting research, or receiving training.
- L-1 Visa: For intra-company transferees who are employed by an international company with offices both in the U.S. and abroad, and who are temporarily transferred to a parent, branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of the same company in the U.S.
- O-1 Visa: For individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who have a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
- P-1 Visa: For internationally recognized athletes or entertainers to perform at a specific competition or event.
- R-1 Visa: For people coming to the U.S. to work temporarily as a minister or other religious occupation.
- E-2 Visa: For investors who are citizens of a treaty country and who have made a substantial investment in a U.S. enterprise.
- K-1 Visa: For fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens who are coming to the U.S. to get married.
- G Visas: For representatives of international organizations and their immediate family members.
As long as any of these visas or other valid nonimmigrant visas are currently active and will not expire before your transit through the U.S., you do not need to apply for a separate transit visa. Always check the specific conditions and validity of your visa to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration rules during your transit.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a transit visa, you must fit into one of these categories:
- Non-US citizens with a layover in the US en route to another country.
- Non-US citizens or UN officials heading to the U.N. headquarters.
- Foreign government officials in transit through the US for official purposes.
If you hold a visa for the US or are from a Visa Waiver Program country, you may not need a separate transit visa.
Applying for a Transit Visa
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a US Transit Visa:
Step 1: File Form DS-160
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160. Fill all the required fields accurately and submit it online. You’ll receive a confirmation page and a barcode which are essential for your application process.
Here is a detailed guide on How to fill your DS-160 form.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for a transit visa is $160. Ensure you keep the receipt as proof of payment. The C2 visa applicants might not be required to pay this fee due to diplomatic arrangements.
Step 3: Schedule Your Interview
Schedule an interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Due to the high volume of applications, it is advisable to do this early.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your interview:
- Printed DS-160 confirmation page.
- Current passport and previous passports, if any.
- Passport-size photograph meeting the US visa photo requirements.
- Receipt of your visa fee payment.
- Social media details and history for the past five years.
- Documentation proving you have a ticket to continue travel.
- A letter stating the purpose of your visit to your final destination.
- Financial proof to support your short stay.
- If applicable, extra documents such as a clearance letter from a physician if you have specific medical conditions, arrest records, etc.
Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview
Arrive on time for your visa interview with all your documents. The consular officer will review your application and determine if you are eligible for the visa.
Visa Processing Time
Processing can take at least 5 working days, but this varies depending on the embassy’s workload. Always check the status of your application and plan accordingly.
Restrictions and Validity
The C visa is strictly for transit purposes. It does not allow you to:
- Stay beyond your designated duration, usually not more than 29 days.
- Seek employment or study in the US.
- Extend or change visa status, or apply for a Green Card.
- Engage in any travel outside the immediate area of your layover (specific to C2 visas).
Traveling With Dependents
Every member of your family transiting through the US must have their own C visa, as there are no dependent privileges with transit visas.
Transiting through the United States requires proper documentation and an understanding of the limitations and responsibilities that come with a C visa. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth journey through the US on your way to your final destination. Always check the latest information and requirements at the U.S. Department of State’s visa webpage before applying, as regulations may change.
Here’s a list of official resources and links that are essential for anyone applying for a USA Transit Visa. These resources provide direct access to forms, guidance on application procedures, and other critical information:
1. U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs
- Main Page for U.S. Visas: This page provides comprehensive information about various types of visas.
U.S. Visas
2. DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
- Form DS-160: The online visa application form required for transit visa applications.
DS-160 Online Application
3. Photo Requirements
- Visa Photograph Requirements: Guidelines for the photograph required for the visa application.
Photo Requirements
4. Fee Information
- Visa Application Fees: Information about current visa application fees.
Visa Fees
5. Appointment and Interview
- Visa Appointments: General information about scheduling an interview appointment for a visa.
Visa Appointment and Processing Wait Times
6. Embassy and Consulate Locator
- Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates: This tool helps applicants locate U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.
U.S. Embassies and Consulates
7. Visa Waiver Program & ESTA
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Information on the VWP, which allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less.
Visa Waiver Program - Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA): Online application for the ESTA approval required under VWP.
ESTA Application
8. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- CBP Information Center: Useful for understanding the rules and requirements for entering the U.S.
CBP Info Center
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Nonimmigrant Visa FAQs: Answers common questions about applying for different types of nonimmigrant visas.
Visa FAQs
10. Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC)
- Check Visa Application Status: Tool to check the status of a visa application after an interview.
Check Visa Application Status
These resources are vital for ensuring that your application process is as smooth and informed as possible. Always check for the most current information directly on these official websites prior to making your application or travel plans.
Got more questions? Check below
What happens if my layover in the U.S. is unexpectedly extended beyond the validity of my C visa due to flight cancellations or delays?
- Contact the nearest U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office or the USCIS as soon as possible. You may need to apply for a special extension, but such cases are handled individually based on the circumstances.
Can I leave the airport during my transit through the U.S. on a C1 visa?
- Yes, C1 visa holders can leave the airport during their layover. However, any exit from the airport should be reasonable and justifiable, mainly focused on transit purposes like overnight layovers. Remember, your activities are restricted, and you must comply with the terms of your visa.
Is it possible to convert my C1, C2, or C3 visa into a tourist or business visa if I decide to extend my stay in the U.S.?
- No, transit visas (C type) cannot be changed to tourist (B1/B2) or any other type of visa. You must depart the U.S. and apply for a different type of visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country if required.
Are there special transit visa considerations for crew members of commercial airlines or ships passing through the U.S.?
- Crew members generally require a C1/D visa, which combines transit (C1) and crewmember (D) statuses. This allows crew members to enter the U.S. temporarily during their work on international flights or sea vessels.
What proof is required to show that I need to transit through the U.S. on my way to another country?
- You must provide a valid ticket or itinerary showing your scheduled departure to your final destination from the U.S. within the permissible transit period, typically not exceeding 29 days.
Can family members traveling together use one application for a transit visa?
- No, each individual transiting needs a separate application, even if they are part of the same travel group or family. Each person must independently meet the visa requirements.
What documentation is critical to avoid denial of a U.S. transit visa?
- Ensure to have comprehensive proof of your onward journey, means to financially support yourself during the transit, a valid reason for transiting via the U.S., and compelling ties to your home country to show you will not attempt to overstay.
Can I visit friends or family during my C1 transit visa layover?
- While technically possible as long as it’s within your layover duration, it’s essential to maintain the primary purpose of your visa. Extended stays or deviation from your planned itinerary can be flagged as non-compliance.
What should I do if my transit visa application is denied?
- Understand the reason for denial. If circumstances have changed or if you can provide additional documentation that addresses the consular officer’s concerns, you might reapply.
Is it necessary to go through a visa interview for transit visa applications for all ages?
- Yes, generally all applicants, regardless of age, have to attend a visa interview. However, exemptions or waivers to the interview requirement might apply in particular circumstances, especially concerning very young children or elderly applicants.
