Visa Tyoes
Crew Members
Individual C-1/D visas are issued to crew members of international airlines and to aliens required for the normal operation and service of a vessel. In the case of the latter, in determining who qualifies for the C-1/D visa we take into consideration the individual's responsibilities and activities on the ship. For example, the most commonly issued C-1/D visas are to crew members of cruise liners and include but are not limited to beauticians, entertainers, and lifeguards.
Documents Required for C-1/D:
- Original letter from shipping agent
- Seaman's book
Dry Dock
Crewmen who are to service a vessel in dry dock require the appropriate H-2 temporary work visas, unless the the work is being done under warranty, in which case they qualify for B-1 business visas.
Documents Required for B-1:
- Original letter from current employer
- Copy of warrant contract
Private Yacht
If you will be working on a private yacht sailing out of a foreign port and cruising in U.S. waters for more than 29 days, you will require a B-1 business visa.
Documents Required for B-1:
- Copy of employment contract
Holiday
If you wish to remain in the United States for a holiday after your period of C1/D employment aboard an airliner or vessel, then you will be required to apply for admission as a visitor on a B-2 visa. Note that if you enter the U.S. aboard a cruise liner or airline which participates in the Visa Waiver Program you may be eligible to enter visa free. You should check with the cruise liner before traveling.
Documents Required for B-2:
- Letter from current employer
Dependents of Crewmen
Dependents of crewmen (D) visa holders who are accompanying the alien to the U.S. may be eligible for B-2 visas. Note: Visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program is only available to those who enter the United States aboard a participating carrier. Many shipping companies are not participating carriers.
Documents Required for B-2:
- Letter from C1/D holder's current employer
- Photocopy of relative's C1/D visa
- Original marriage certificate or birth certificate showing relationship to the C-1/D visa holder
Please note that we can give no assurances in advance regarding the issuance of visas. Therefore, please do not make final travel plans or purchase nonrefundable tickets until a visa has been issued.