Non-Immigrant Visas
Crew Visas
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 C1/D visa.
Please note: crewmembers intending to work cannot travel under the Visa Waiver Program, a C1/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.
Last updated: 11/18/2008