Crew Visas

C-1 and D visas are issued to crewmembers of international airlines and to foreigners required for the normal operation and service of maritime vessels. In the case of the latter, in determining who qualifies for the C-1 and D visas, consular officers take into consideration the individual's responsibilities and activities on the ship.

For example, the most commonly issued C-1 and D visas are to crewmembers of cruise liners and include, but are not limited to beauticians, entertainers and lifeguards. Crewmembers who plan to travel to the United States by air or ship for the purpose of joining a ship or aircraft in the United States must obtain a transit (C-1) visa. Along with their DS-156 application form, crewmembers must submit their seamen's book and a letter from their employer explaining where and what ship they intend to join. Crewmembers joining a ship in the United States will normally be granted both a transit visa and a crew visa at the same time. 

Alien crewmembers serving aboard a vessel or airplane that will land in the United States must obtain a visa. The visa symbol is "D". Crewmembers apply using a passport or a seaman's book along with a letter from the shipping company or airline confirming your employment and when you plan to arrive or dock in the United States.