us travel transit visas

Transit Visa USA: C-1, C-2 and C-3 Visas

C Visas allow you to enter the U.S and stay for your layover.

C Visas Allow You to Enter the U.S and Stay for a Period of Rest

Some people need to stay in the U.S. for a period of rest before they move on to their next destination. In other words, they have to transit through the U.S. If you have to wait in the U.S. before moving to your destination, you need to get a U.S transit visa.

U.S. transit visas are denominated with the letter C. It allows you to enter the U.S. and stay for your layover. Afterward, when your planned flight or ship leaves for your next destination, you will have to leave the U.S.

The U.S. government defines the C visa for immediate and continuous transit through the U.S. which means your itinerary to your final destination includes a layover in the U.S. and you will have to stop there but have no other privileges.

With a C visa, you can’t stay more than your approved time, and this is not a visa to perform tourism or business-related activities. If you want to engage in tourism or business activities in the U.S., you will have to get a B-1 or B-2 visa .

However, if you already have a B-1 or B-2 visa for the U.S, and you have to transit through the country, you do not need a C visa. You will be allowed transit with a B visa. In addition, if you qualify as part of the Visa Waiver Program , you do not need a U.S transit visa.

Types of USA Transit Visa

The C visa is a transit-only visa, but it has three categories. These are the types of the U.S. transit visas:

C-1 – General Transit Visa

C-1 is the transit visa for non-U.S. citizens passing through the U.S. on a layover on their way to their final destination.

C-2 – U.N Headquarters Transit Visa

C-2 is the transit visa for non-U.S. citizens traveling to the United Nations (U.N) Headquarters in New York City or United Nations officials transiting through the U.S to go to a final destination. Those who have this visa are only allowed to be in the vicinity of the U.N. headquarters. They are entitled to exit the U.N headquarters or a location in its vicinity only when they leave the U.S.

C-3 – Foreign Government Transit Visa

C-3 is the transit visa for foreign government officials traveling through the U.S. on a layover on their way to their final destination. The purpose of the travel must be for the government or work-related activities.

Requirements for USA Transit Visa

To be eligible for a transit or C visa to the U.S, the person must fulfill one of the criteria:

• Be a non-U.S citizen on their way to a final destination and only passing through the U.S
• Be a non-U.S citizen or U.N official going to the U.N headquarters in New York City
• Be a foreign government official transiting through the U.S. to their final destination on a work-related trip.

If you do not belong to one of these categories, you are not allowed to get a C transit visa. In addition, the C visa doesn’t come with dependent visas. This means that all those transiting to the U.S, including spouses and children must have a transit visa.

For example, if a foreign government official is transiting through the U.S. with family, the family members must have individual C visas too.

Application for Transit Visa

The application procedure for the transit C visa is similar to other visas. You need to follow these steps to submit a full application for your C visa.

Identify Which Type of C Visa You Need

If you are not traveling to the U.N. headquarters and are not a foreign government official, you will need to apply for a C-1 visa. Know which type of visa you need so that you can attach all the documents and file the right forms.

Apply Online by Filing Form DS-160

Filing the Form DS-160 is the first step to start the application process. Complete the necessary fields and then submit the form online. After submitting the form, you will get a barcode number and confirmation page which you should save for future references.

Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for the C type visas is $185. You have to pay this amount and keep the receipt because it will be needed later in the process. There might be other fees depending on your location and the Embassy you are applying from. However, there are no visa issuance fees for the C-2 visa. This is because reciprocity measures have not been put in place for this type of transit visa.

Schedule Your Interview

The next step is to schedule your interview. Try to schedule your visa interview as soon as possible. U.S Embassies sometimes deal with a high workload so it might take them more time to schedule your interview. When the interview is scheduled, you will get an interview confirmation letter which you will show at the time of the interview.

Submit the Required Documents

You need to prepare a file of documents to have with you when you go for the visa interview. It is advisable to prepare all the documents. If your file is missing any documents, there will be reason enough for the Embassy to delay or even deny your visa.

Below is a table with the required documents for your file based on the type of visa:

Required Documents

• DS-160 form confirmation page
• Interview confirmation letter
• One photograph
• Visa fee receipts
• Proof that you are allowed to enter the country of your final destination
• Ticket or itinerary to your final destination
• A letter which states the purpose of your visit to your final destination
• Proof that you are financially able to cover your expenses during your transit
• Evidence that you will return to your home or another country after your stay in the U.S. This could be a property deed, apartment lease, or other proof.
• If you are HIV positive, you will need a letter from your doctor explaining your medical state and the risks associated with your condition, as well as proof of medical health insurance
• If you have been arrested before in the U.S., you need to submit a letter explaining the offense, the reasons for the arrest, and proof of whether you were convicted or not.
• DS-160 confirmation code
• Receipt of fee payments
• If you are a U.N official transiting through the U.S, provide proof that you are allowed entry into the country of your final destination

Note: You can apply for the C-2 visa only when a request or petition by the U.N. or other foreign missions or organizations has been submitted to the nearest U.S. embassy.

Attend Your Visa Interview

With your document file, you should attend the visa interview at the scheduled time. If your interview is successful, you will have a higher chance of getting a transit visa.

If you have been granted the visa , you will be able to transit through the U.S. successfully to your next or final destination.

U.S Transit Visa Processing Time

Processing times for any U.S visa depend on the workload that the U.S Embassy from which you are applying has. If there are more applications, it will take longer. However, since the transit visa is for such a short duration of time, its processing time is generally faster than for other visas.

From the time you submit your application, expect to wait for a minimum of 5 working days to receive a response on your visa status. The Embassy will let you know whether you have been granted or denied the transit visa. This is only an average time estimate, though, so if it takes longer, do not assume that your visa has been denied .

Since you only need the transit visa at the U.S. airport, you can give the information of what airport you will be in and on what date. If you submit a request and it is granted, the U.S Embassy could send the documents to that airport with the visa, and it will be waiting for you when you transit through the U.S.

Validity of Transit Visas

Transit visas mean that the person holding it does not intend to stay in the U.S. and has another final destination. That is why is it necessary to prove you have a final destination by submitting tickets or visas for another country.

Because it is assumed that transit does not take too much time, the validity of the C visa is short too. All types of C transit visas (C-1, C-2, and C-3 visa) are valid for a period of a maximum of 29 days or until the date to depart the U.S is on your ticket, whichever one is sooner.

This means that if you enter the U.S on September 1 st , you must leave on or before September 29 th . However, if you have a ticket to your final destination on September 20 th , you must leave the U.S on September 20 th .

Restrictions of Transit Visas

Since the transit visa is different from other non-immigrant visas in the sense that you are not allowed to stay in the U.S, there are several restrictions to what you can do while in the U.S. With a transit visa (C-1, C-2, or C-3), you are not allowed to do the following:

• Cannot stay in the U.S more than the designated time
• Cannot travel or study in the U.S
• Cannot become employed in the U.S
• Cannot extend the transit visa
• Cannot adjust or change the status of the transit visa
• Cannot apply for a Green Card with a transit visa
• Cannot have dependents with only one transit visa
• Dependents cannot travel, work, or study in the U.S

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Format: Download Instructions online Included: Instructions, Forms Instructions Language: English

Overview of the Application Process for a C-1 Transit Visa

General Information about the Transit Visa:

U.S. Immigration has two main categories of visas: immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas . Non-immigrant visas are given to visitors that are allowed to travel to the U.S. and stay temporarily, like the F-1 visa for students that plan to go back to their home country after finishing their studies in the U.S., or like the B-1 / B-2 visa for business and tourist visitors, among many other types of non-immigrant visas. The other type of visas, immigrant visas, gives you the right to live and work in the U.S. permanently and receive a green card . The immigrant visa, Green Card or US Permanent Resident Card, is only given to immigrants that live or are planning to live in the United States permanently. Green Cards are not supposed to be for people that want to live in a country outside of the U.S. and just come to the U.S. temporarily.

The Transit Visa  is a nonimmigrant visa, an official document giving you permission to travel through United States in order to arrive to another country. With this visa you can travel in and out of the United States when your final destination is another country.  You do not need to obtain a U.S. Transit Visa, if you have a valid B-1 Business or B-2 Tourist Visa because a tourist visa and most U.S. visas also allow you to transit through the U.S. The transit visa is frequently used by residents of European countries like Spain or England, but have citizenship of another non-European country, so they require a visa to transit through the United States. It is also common to apply for this visa for travelers from Mexico and Latin America, who want to take a flight which stops in the U.S., so it is necessary to apply for a C-1 visa.

Residents from the countries that qualify for the Visa Waiver Program can transit through United States without the C-1 visa. An immigration officer at the port of entry can admit a person holding a C-1 transit visa for the duration determined by person, but for a maximum of 29 days. C-1 Transit Visa holders are required to leave the US within 29 days on the proposed flight or ship of departure. Some applicants may be required to apply for another type of visas, like the B-1 Business Visa or a B-2 Tourist Visa in order to visit the United States.

Travel purposes which require a C-1 Transit Visa:

• A brief layover in the United States, the only reason to enter the U.S. is to transit;
• The ship makes port in the United States during the trip, but doesn’t land in the U.S.;
• A crewmember traveling to the United States as a passenger to join a ship or aircraft you will work on, providing services for operation. In this case, you will need to obtain a crewmember D visa (C-1/D visa).
• A foreign citizen proceeding in immediate and continuous transit through the United States to or from the United Nations Headquarters District, under provisions of the Headquarters agreement with the United Nations, requires a diplomatic transit (C-2) visa. Travel within the United States will be limited to the immediate New York City vicinity.

Travel purposes that are not allowed a C-1 Transit Visa:

• If you want to visit friends or go sightseeing and a primary purpose is not to transit, a foreign citizen requires a visitor (B) visa;
• A crewmember on a private yacht sailing out of a foreign port which will be cruising in U.S. waters for more than 29 days is generally required to have a visitor (B) visa;
• An officer of a designated international organization assigned to the United States may pass in immediate and continuous transit through the United States on an International Organization (G-4) visa.

How to apply for C-1 Transit Visa?  

Order and download these instructions online now to learn how to apply for a United States C1 Transit Visa. This is an overview of the application process.

1) Apply for C-1 Transit Visa online, Form DS-160 and print the application form in order to bring it to interview at a U.S. consulate in your country of residence. Processing times can vary a lot in different countries and there could be delays of several months before you can obtain the visa appointment .

2) Upload your photo. The photo should be uploaded while completing the online Form DS-160.

3) Schedule an appointment for your visa interview, at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country of your residence.

4) Pay a visa issuance fee.

5) Prepare required information: passport, visa application, Form DS-160 confirmation page, photo and payment confirmation (if you pay before the interview).

MRV Visa Application Fee: This information package includes instructions how to apply for transit visa C-1 and access to forms to be completed online, but does not include the MRV fee to be paid to apply for a visa or for an appointment at the embassy or consulate. The transit visa application fee ( MRV fee ) must be paid directly to the embassy or US consulate where you submit your visa application C-1. Follow the instructions in this manual to complete the processing of transit visa and submit the transit visa form.

Interview at the Embassy or U.S. Consulate to complete the application process Transit Visa U.S.:

During the interview , a consular officer may ask you different questions concerning the purposes of your travel. After the interview, the officer will determine whether you qualify to receive a visa and which visa category is appropriate according to the purpose of your tip.

After the interview, the consular officer will inform you if any further processing is necessary to complete the visa application. If the visa is approved, you will be informed how your passport with your transit visa will be returned to you.

This page can be found at: http://www.immigrationunitedstates.org/products/c-1-transit-visa.html

IMPORTANT LEGAL WARNING AND DISCLAIMER

This site does not give visas, the processing of the transit visa must be completed in person through an interview at an embassy or US consulate, but person must complete the application form online before going to the appointment. Information Packet with Instructions for Visa Application is an informative guide about the process and application, with instructions to apply for a visa. The cost of this guide does not include the fee to apply for the visa.

 Information and Instructions about the C-1 Transit Visa included in this immigration guide:

• What is a C-1 Transit Visa?
• What documents should I afford to apply for a United States C1 Transit Visa?
• I am a resident from another country and need to travel to the United States. For how long can I stay inside the United States?
• For how long is a C-1 Transit Visa valid?
• How to apply for a Transit Visa? What form to submit when applying for a C-1 Visa?
• What is the biometrics and fingerprint requirement for a Transit Visa?
• How to make an appointment for an interview at the embassy or US consulate to process the visa?
• How to complete the application process Transit Visa

Transit Visa C-1 Application Related Forms

• Description C-1 Visa Transit US
• C-1 Transit Visa Application forms and instructions
• Visa Requirements for Transit C-1
• Benefits of Transit Visa C-1
• Disadvantages of Transit Visa C-1
• Eligibility Information for Transit Visa C-1
• Applying for a Transit Visa C-1
• Application Forms Instructions for Transit Visa
• Description of program Visa Waiver (Visa Waiver)
• C-1 Transit Visa application processing time
• National list of USCIS offices in the United States
• Contact information and list of U.S. embassies and consulates abroad
• Helpful immigration related information
• USCIS contact information and forms

C-1 Transit visa Order this instructions to learn how to access and how to apply using the application forms related to Transit Visa C-1, you will have access to the application information and instructions for C-1 visa immigration forms.

Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with the government, we are a private publisher of information guides. This product only includes instructions, it does not include filing fees, or any other charges to submit your application.

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Transit Visa: Everything You Need to Know About the Application Process and Travel Documentation

A transit visa is a travel document that allows passengers to pass through a country for a brief period while en route to their final destination. this article provides an in-depth explanation of the transit visa, including the visa application process and necessary travel documentation..

Key Takeaways:

• Understand transit visas: Learn what a transit visa is, who needs one, and how to navigate the application process.
• Factors affecting transit visas: Your nationality, destination, layover duration, and immigration entry determine if you need a transit visa.
• Applying for a transit visa: Check requirements, complete an application form , prepare supporting documents, and attend an interview (if required).

Understanding Transit Visas

When traveling abroad, you might have to stop in a country before reaching your final destination. This is known as a layover, and sometimes it requires a special type of travel documentation called a Transit Visa . In this blog post, we break down what a transit visa is, who needs one, and how to navigate the visa application process .

What is a Transit Visa?

A transit visa is a temporary, short-duration visa that travelers need when they are passing through one country to reach another destination. It’s important to note that not every traveler or every transit requires such a visa. The necessity for this visa largely depends on your nationality, the country you’re transiting through, and the duration of your layover.

Do You Need a Transit Visa?

Different countries have different rules for transit visas. Some key variables that may determine whether you need one include:

• Your Nationality: Citizens from certain countries might not need a transit visa thanks to treaties or agreements with the transit country.
• Destination Reach: If your final destination country has a visa agreement with your transit country, you might be exempted.
• Duration of Layover: Layovers under a certain time threshold (often 24–48 hours) may not require a visa.
• Airport Transit Zones: Staying within the international transit area of an airport usually does not require a visa; however, if you wish to pass through immigration and enter the country, even for a short period, a visa is typically required.

The Visa Application Process

Applying for a transit visa involves several steps and can vary depending on the country’s specific procedures. Here’s a general guideline on the process:

Also of Interest:

Schengen visa update: long-term multiple entry options for indian nationals, do uscis cases get reviewed on weekends.

• Check Requirements: Before you travel, check the transit country’s embassy or official government website to understand if you need a transit visa.
• Application Form: If a transit visa is needed, you’ll usually have to complete an application form.
• Prepare Supporting Documents: Common requirements include photos, proof of onward travel, and sometimes proof of sufficient funds.
• Schedule an Appointment: Some embassies may require you to book an appointment to submit your visa application.
• Attend Interview (If Required): A visa interview might be a part of the process where you’ll answer questions about your travel.
• Visa Fee: Payment of a visa fee is a standard part of the process unless waived by a specific agreement between countries.
• Wait for Processing: After submission, you will wait for the visa to be processed, the duration of which can vary.
• Receive Visa: If approved, you will either receive a visa sticker in your passport or a paper visa to present during your travels.

Travel Documentation

When applying for a transit visa, it’s essential to have all your travel documentation in order. Usually, you’ll need the following:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months left before expiration.
• Confirmed airline tickets for all your flights.
• Proof of legal residency in the country you are returning to if you are not a citizen.
• Any visa required for your final destination country.

It’s also recommended to carry copies of these documents with you as you travel, in case you need to present them during your layover or any spot checks by immigration officials.

Prior Planning Prevents Problems

To avoid any complications, start the visa application process as soon as you’ve booked your flights. This will give you enough time to gather the necessary documents, make an appointment if needed, and allow for processing time.

It’s also wise to be aware of the latest travel advisories and updates from the transit country, as immigration laws and visa requirements can change. Remember, following the right procedures not only ensures legal compliance but also secures a stress-free journey.

In conclusion, a transit visa is an essential travel document for certain layovers. Always check in advance whether you need one and follow the visa application process diligently. With the right preparation and documentation, you’ll be on your way to hassle-free travels.

For more information and updates on transit visas and other travel requirements, please consult the U.S. Department of State’s website or the official immigration websites of the countries relevant to your travel.

So there you have it, the lowdown on transit visas! Don’t let these quirky travel documents catch you off guard. Check if you need one, follow the application process diligently, and you’ll be jet-setting stress-free in no time. And hey, if you want to dive deeper into the world of visas and travel requirements, head on over to visaverge.com. It’s like an explorer’s paradise for all your visa needs. Happy travels, my friend!

This Article in a Nutshell:

Understanding transit visas can make your layovers easier. Not everyone needs one, but it depends on your nationality, layover duration, and destination. Apply in advance with the embassy, complete the form, gather supporting documents, pay a fee, and wait for processing. Check requirements and travel advisories for stress-free travels.

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Transit Visa Application and Other Required Documents

The first step is to complete the appropriate visa application form. Most countries provide only one visa application form for all types of visas. Others have a specific application for each type. Some application forms need to be downloaded and printed while others are in electronic format. You need to follow the directions provided by the consular services of the country to which you are making application.

Other Possible Requirements for a Transit Visa

Transit visa fees, staying beyond your authorized stay, tips for applying for a transit visa.

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Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool . On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit, and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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Qualifications

Application items, how to apply, supporting documents, more information, transit (c visa).

A citizen of a foreign country traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the United States en route to a foreign destination requires a valid transit visa. Exceptions to this requirement include those travelers eligible to transit the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program or travelers who are nationals of a country which has an agreement with the United States allowing their citizens to travel to the United States without visas .

If the traveler seeks layover privileges for purposes other than for transit through the United States, such as to visit friends or for sightseeing, the applicant will have to qualify for and obtain the type of visa required for that purpose, such as a B-2 visa.

Crew (D visa)

A crew member serving onboard a sea vessel or aircraft in the United States needs a crew visa. Crew members of an aircraft or ship that will be transiting through the United States or its waters generally use a combination transit/crew visa (C-1/D). However, in some cases, individuals may only require the D visa.

Crew members who work aboard vessels within the Outer Continental Shelf may qualify for a modified B-1 visa in lieu of a crew visa.

Crew members who will be entering the United States during time-off between flights or cruises should also obtain a B-1/B-2 visa to use during these personal/vacation days. Applicants applying simultaneously for both a C-1/D and a B-1/B-2 visa pay only one visa application fee.

To apply for a transit visa, you must show:

• Intent to pass in immediate and continuous transit through the United States.
• A common carrier ticket or other evidence of transportation arrangements to your destination.
• Sufficient funds to carry out the purpose of your transit journey.
• Permission to enter another country upon departure from the United States.

To apply for other C, D or C-1/D visas, you must demonstrate to a consular officer that:

• The purpose of your trip is to enter the United States solely for transit or crew purposes.
• You do not intend to be paid by a U.S. source while in the United States, unless you have been granted proper approval for a temporary work visa.
• You plan to stay for a specific, limited period of time.
• You have evidence of funds to cover all expenses while in the United States.

To apply for a transit or crew member visa, you must submit the following:

• A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 web page for more information about the DS-160.
• A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). Each person, including children, applying for a U.S. visa must have his or her own individual passport and form DS160.
• One (1) 2"x2" (5cmx5cm) photograph taken within the last six months. This web page has information about the required photo format.
• A receipt showing payment of your US$160 non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application processing fee paid in local currency. This web page has more information about paying this fee. If a visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, depending on your nationality. The Department of State's website can help you find out if you must pay a visa issuance reciprocity fee and what the fee amount is.
• If applicable, a seaman's book valid beyond the expiration date of your employment contract and all prior seamen's books. Crew members must submit an official report of loss if they are unable to submit the book.

In addition to these items, you must present an interview appointment letter confirming that you booked an appointment through this service . You may also bring whatever supporting documents you believe support the information provided to the consular officer.

Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form .

Pay the visa application fee .

Schedule your appointment on this web page. You will need the following information in order to schedule your appointment:

• Your passport number
• The receipt number from your Visa Fee receipt. (Click  here  if you need help finding this number.)
• The ten (10) digit barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page

Visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the date and time of your visa interview. You must bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your DS-160 confirmation page, one photograph taken within the last six months, your current and all old passports, and the original visa fee payment receipt. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

Supporting documents are only one of many factors a consular officer will consider in your interview. Consular officers look at each application individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors during adjudication. Consular officers may look at your specific intentions, family situation, and your long-range plans and prospects within your country of residence. Each case is examined individually and is accorded every consideration under the law.

Although supporting documents may assist you in your interview, consular officers rely primarily on the interview to determine your eligibility for a visa. In other words, supporting documents are voluntary and of secondary importance.

Caution: Do not Do not present false documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in permanent visa ineligibility. If confidentiality is a concern, you should bring your documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in a sealed envelope. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate will not make your information available to anyone and will respect the confidentiality of your information.

You should bring the following documents to your interview:

• Current proof of income, tax payments, property or business ownership, or assets.
• A letter from your employer detailing your position, salary, how long you have been employed, any authorized vacation and the business purpose, if any, of your U.S. trip.
• Where appropriate, an itinerary and/or other information about your planned trip. (This can be tentative.)
• Bank savings account books or other evidence of liquid assets that indicate the balance in your accounts and account activity.
• Real estate lease or deeds.
• For crew: a letter from your company's headquarters and/or your seamen's book.

For more information about transit visas and visas for crew members , visit the Department of State's website.

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Visa Bulletin For May 2024

Number 89 Volume X Washington, D.C

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A. STATUTORY NUMBERS FOR PREFERENCE IMMIGRANT VISAS

This bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during May  for: “Final Action Dates” and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

Unless otherwise indicated on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at  www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo , individuals seeking to file applications for adjustment of status with USCIS must use the “Final Action Dates” charts below for determining when they can file such applications. When USCIS determines that there are more immigrant visas available for the fiscal year than there are known applicants for such visas, USCIS will state on its website that applicants may instead use the “Dates for Filing Visa Applications” charts in this Bulletin. 

1.  Procedures for determining dates. Consular officers are required to report to the Department of State documentarily qualified applicants for numerically limited visas; USCIS reports applicants for adjustment of status. Allocations in the charts below were made, to the extent possible, in chronological order of reported priority dates, for demand received by April 1st . If not all demand could be satisfied, the category or foreign state in which demand was excessive was deemed oversubscribed. The final action date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who could not be reached within the numerical limits. If it becomes necessary during the monthly allocation process to retrogress a final action date, supplemental requests for numbers will be honored only if the priority date falls within the new final action date announced in this bulletin. If at any time an annual limit were reached, it would be necessary to immediately make the preference category “unavailable”, and no further requests for numbers would be honored.

2.  The fiscal year 2024 limit for family-sponsored preference immigrants determined in accordance with Section 201 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is 226,000.  The worldwide level for annual employment-based preference immigrants is at least 140,000.  Section 202 prescribes that the per-country limit for preference immigrants is set at 7% of the total annual family-sponsored and employment-based preference limits, i.e., 25,620.  The dependent area limit is set at 2%, or 7,320.

3.  INA Section 203(e) provides that family-sponsored and employment-based preference visas be issued to eligible immigrants in the order in which a petition in behalf of each has been filed. Section 203(d) provides that spouses and children of preference immigrants are entitled to the same status, and the same order of consideration, if accompanying or following to join the principal. The visa prorating provisions of Section 202(e) apply to allocations for a foreign state or dependent area when visa issuances will exceed the per-country limit. These provisions apply at present to the following oversubscribed chargeability areas:  CHINA-mainland born, INDIA, MEXICO, and PHILIPPINES. 

4.  Section 203(a) of the INA prescribes preference classes for allotment of Family-sponsored immigrant visas as follows: 

FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES

First : ( F1 ) Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens:  23,400 plus any numbers not required for fourth preference.

Second : Spouses and Children, and Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Permanent Residents:  114,200, plus the number (if any) by which the worldwide family preference level exceeds 226,000, plus any unused first preference numbers:

A. ( F2A ) Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents:  77% of the overall second preference limitation, of which 75% are exempt from the per-country limit;

B. ( F2B ) Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21 years of age or older) of Permanent Residents:  23% of the overall second preference limitation.

Third : ( F3 ) Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens:  23,400, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences.

Fourth : ( F4 ) Brothers and Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens:  65,000, plus any numbers not required by first three preferences.

A.   FINAL ACTION DATES FOR FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCE CASES

On the chart below, the listing of a date for any class indicates that the class is oversubscribed (see paragraph 1); "C" means current, i.e., numbers are authorized for issuance to all qualified applicants; and "U" means unauthorized, i.e., numbers are not authorized for issuance. (NOTE: Numbers are authorized for issuance only for applicants whose priority date is earlier than the final action date listed below.)

For May, F2A numbers  EXEMPT from per-country limit  are authorized for issuance to applicants from all countries with priority dates  earlier  than 08NOV20. F2A numbers  SUBJECT to per-country limit  are authorized for issuance to applicants chargeable to all countries EXCEPT MEXICO , with priority dates beginning 08NOV20 and earlier than 01JUN21. All F2A numbers provided for MEXICO are exempt from the per-country limit.

B.  DATES FOR FILING FAMILY-SPONSORED VISA APPLICATIONS

The chart below reflects dates for filing visa applications within a timeframe justifying immediate action in the application process. Applicants for immigrant visas who have a priority date earlier than the application date in the chart below may assemble and submit required documents to the Department of State’s National Visa Center, following receipt of notification from the National Visa Center containing detailed instructions. The application date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who cannot submit documentation to the National Visa Center for an immigrant visa. If a category is designated “current,” all applicants in the relevant category may file applications, regardless of priority date.

The “C” listing indicates that the category is current, and that applications may be filed regardless of the applicant’s priority date. The listing of a date for any category indicates that only applicants with a priority date which is earlier than the listed date may file their application.

Visit www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo for information on whether USCIS has determined that this chart can be used (in lieu of the chart in paragraph 4.A.) this month for filing applications for adjustment of status with USCIS. 

5.  Section 203(b) of the INA prescribes preference classes for allotment of Employment-based immigrant visas as follows: 

EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES

First :  Priority Workers:  28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required for fourth and fifth preferences.

Second :  Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability:  28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required by first preference.

Third :  Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers:  28.6% of the worldwide level, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences, not more than 10,000 of which to "*Other Workers".

Fourth :  Certain Special Immigrants:  7.1% of the worldwide level.

Fifth :  Employment Creation:  7.1% of the worldwide level, of which 32% are reserved as follows: 20% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in a rural area; 10% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in a high unemployment area; and 2% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in infrastructure projects. The remaining 68% are unreserved and are allotted for all other qualified immigrants.

A.  FINAL ACTION DATES FOR EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCE CASES

*Employment Third Preference Other Workers Category: Section 203(e) of the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) passed by Congress in November 1997, as amended by Section 1(e) of Pub. L. 105-139, provides that once the Employment Third Preference Other Worker (EW) cut-off date has reached the priority date of the latest EW petition approved prior to November 19, 1997, the 10,000 EW numbers available for a fiscal year are to be reduced by up to 5,000 annually beginning in the following fiscal year. This reduction is to be made for as long as necessary to offset adjustments under the NACARA program. Since the EW final action date reached November 19, 1997 during Fiscal Year 2001, the reduction in the EW annual limit to 5,000 began in Fiscal Year 2002. For Fiscal Year 2024 this reduction will be limited to approximately 150.

B.  DATES FOR FILING OF EMPLOYMENT-BASED VISA APPLICATIONS

The chart below reflects dates for filing visa applications within a timeframe justifying immediate action in the application process. Applicants for immigrant visas who have a priority date earlier than the application date in the chart may assemble and submit required documents to the Department of State’s National Visa Center, following receipt of notification from the National Visa Center containing detailed instructions. The application date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who cannot submit documentation to the National Visa Center for an immigrant visa. If a category is designated “current,” all applicants in the relevant category may file, regardless of priority date.

Visit www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo for information on whether USCIS has determined that this chart can be used (in lieu of the chart in paragraph 5.A.) this month for filing applications for adjustment of status with USCIS. 

B .   DIVERSITY IMMIGRANT (DV) CATEGORY FOR THE MONTH OF MAY

Section 203(c) of the INA provides up to 55,000 immigrant visas each fiscal year to permit additional immigration opportunities for persons from countries with low admissions during the previous five years.  The NACARA stipulates that beginning with DV-99, and for as long as necessary, up to 5,000 of the 55,000 annually allocated diversity visas will be made available for use under the NACARA program.  Visa numbers made available to NACARA applicants in FY 2023 will result in reduction of the DV-2024 annual limit to approximately 54,850.  Section 5104 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 amended the NACARA’s provisions on the Diversity Visa program such that the number of visas made available under the NDAA will be deducted from the 55,000 DVs annually allocated.  These amendments will not impact the number of diversity visas available until FY 2025.  DVs are divided among six geographic regions. No one country can receive more than seven percent of the available diversity visas in any one year.

For May , immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2024 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers  BELOW  the specified allocation cut-off number:

Entitlement to immigrant status in the DV category lasts only through the end of the fiscal (visa) year for which the applicant is selected in the lottery. The year of entitlement for all applicants registered for the DV-2024 program ends as of September 30, 2024. DV visas may not be issued to DV-2024 applicants after that date. Similarly, spouses and children accompanying or following to join DV-2024 principals are only entitled to derivative DV status until September 30, 2024. DV visa availability through the very end of FY-2024 cannot be taken for granted. Numbers could be exhausted prior to September 30.

C.   THE DIVERSITY (DV) IMMIGRANT CATEGORY RANK CUT-OFFS WHICH WILL APPLY IN JUNE

For June , immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2024 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers  BELOW  the specified allocation cut-off number:

D.   EMPLOYMENT FOURTH PREFERENCE (SR) RELIGIOUS WORKERS CATEGOY EXTENDED

H.R. 2882, signed on March 23, 2024, extended the Employment Fourth Preference Certain Religious Workers (SR) category until September 30, 2024.  No SR visas may be issued overseas, or final action taken on adjustment of status cases, after midnight September 29, 2024.  Visas issued prior to that date will be valid only until September 29, 2024, and all individuals seeking admission in the non-minister special immigrant category must be admitted (repeat admitted) into the United States no later than midnight September 29, 2024. 

The SR category is subject to the same final action dates as the other Employment Fourth Preference categories per applicable foreign state of chargeability. 

E.   ANNUAL WAITING LIST REPORT OF IMMIGRANT VISA APPLICANTS IN THE FAMILY-SPONSORED AND EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES REGISTERED AT THE NATIONAL VISA CENTER AS OF NOVEMBER 1, 2023

The National Visa Center has provided the totals of applicants who are registered in the various numerically-limited immigrant categories for processing at overseas posts.  This information is available on the Consular Affairs www.travel.state.gov website.  The direct link to the item is:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-statistics/immigrant-visa-statistics.html

F.   U.S. GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE SPECIAL IMMIGRANT VISAS (SIVs)

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, signed into law on December 22, 2023, may affect certain current and former employees of the U.S. Government abroad applying for SIVs or adjustment of status, as described in section 101(a)(27)(D) of the INA.  This does not affect certain Iraqis and Afghans applying for SQ and SI SIVs.  Applicants should contact the consular section at which they filed their Form DS‑1884 for further information on the impact of that law on their case.

G.   FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES, PLEASE VISIT THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

Department of State Publication 9514

CA/VO: April 3, 2024

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