C-1/D Visas: Crew Visas

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 later, 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.

Applying for a C-1/D Visa

All C-1/D visa applicants are required to:

• Complete the visa application form DS-156.
  
• Pay a visa application fee;
  
• Present a passport or other travel document valid for at least six months beyond the holder's period of stay in the United States with at least one blank page - the six-month requirement does not apply to United Kingdom passports. If the passport is damaged, we recommend that you obtain a new passport before applying for the visa to avoid any delay in the processing of your application;
  
• Furnish a letter from the employer on letter headed stationary confirming the applicants employment with the company and period that he or she will be in the United States; and
  
• Provide one photograph which meets State Department regulations.

Note: Crewmembers who wish to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa at the same time as the C-1/D need only complete one set of visa application forms and pay one MRV fee.

Additional processing requirements and information for the following:

• applicants who have a criminal conviction, are HIV positive, have a medical ineligibility, have been denied entry into or deported from the United States
• males aged 16 to 45
• nationals of China, Northern Cyprus, Russia, Somalia & Vietnam
• nationals of Cuba, Iran, Syria & Sudan
• temporary residents of the United Kingdom

Issuance fees

Nationals of certain countries are required to pay an issuance fee in order for an approved visa to be issued. No fee is charged for the issuance of a C-1/D visa to a British citizen passport holder.

How do I apply for the visa?

Applicants aged 14 to 79 are required to appear in person before a U.S. consular officer. See "Applying for a Visa" at top right-hand side of this page for further information.

Reminder: We always recommend that individuals apply for visas well in advance of their proposed date of travel. No assurances regarding the issuance of visas can be given in advance. Therefore, final travel plans or the purchase of non refundable ticket should not be made until a visa has been issued and you are in receipt of the passport.