Crewmember D visa holders are also required to obtain a C-1 visa if traveling to the US to join the vessel they will be working on. In such instances, a combination of C-1/D visa can be obtained.
D Visa Types
D-1 Visa
The D-1 crewman visa allows crewman to serve on board a vessel or aircraft in the US, excluding US-based fishing vessels. D-1 visa holders may stay in the US for up to 29 days.
D-2 Visa
The D-2 crewman visa allows crewman to serve on board a fishing vessel with a home port in the US. D-2 Visa holder may stay in the US for up to 6 months.
C1/D Visa Eligibility
All foreign crewmembers are eligible to apply for a D visa. Eligible crewmen include persons who operate or serve on board a vessel or airline in good faith, in any capacity. Crewmembers may include commercial airline pilots, flight attendants, captains, cooks, technicians, drummers, service staff, and others.
Application Process
To apply for a D visa, eligible crewmembers must complete the following steps.
- Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.
- Schedule an appointment for your visa interview at a US embassy or consulate in your country.
- Pay the application fee.
Fee
Applicants must pay the non-refundable D visa application fee before their interview. The application fee for a D visa is USD 160.
Required Documents
Applicants must gather and prepare the following required documentation prior to their visa interview.
- A passport valid for at least one year from the date of joining the ship (must be renewed if within six months of expiration date).
- Digital photograph
- Application fee payment receipt
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
After the visa interview, if the visa is approved, it will be processed within 3 working days and will be ready for pick-up or delivery by the courier.
Applicants in need of a transit C-1 visa in addition to their D visa may be issued a combination C-1/D visa if they have applied for both visas at the same time.
