Crew Visas

Last Updated on 11/18/2008

Conditions

An alien employed on board a non-military ship or aircraft coming to the United States must obtain a D visa.

Joining a vessel or aircraft in the United States: A crewperson traveling to the United States as a passenger to join a vessel or aircraft has to apply for a C-1/D visa.

Please note: crewmembers intending to work cannot travel under the Visa Waiver Program, a C-1/D visa is still required.

Dependents

A dependent accompanying a crewperson entering the United States as a non-immigrant, and not performing services required for normal operation of the ship or plane, can travel under the Visa Waiver Program, or must obtain a visitor visa, unless such dependent is entering the U.S. for another purpose (e.g. as a student) and needs a different visa.

Application Procedures

Refer to our Application Procedures page for more information about applying for a crew visa.

In addition to the general non-immigrant visa application documents, individuals applying for a crew visa must submit an original "Letter of Employment" confirming the employment and requesting a crew visa is required with the application.