Visa to the USA (C1/D)

Visa C1/D is intended for seafarers traveling to a vessel that calls at U.S. ports or transits through U.S. territory. It allows entry into the country solely for the purpose of joining the vessel or transit, without the right to extended stay ashore.

Conditions for obtaining:

• The visa is issued based on a contract with a shipping company
• Intended only for crews of vessels performing international voyages with calls at U.S. ports
• Does not grant the right to permanent work or residence in the U.S.

Visa validity:

• Typically issued for 5–10 years with multiple entry rights, but the duration of stay per trip is up to 29 days
• Valid only within the scope of the seafarer's current contract

Required documents:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Contract with shipowner or crewing company
• Invitation / Confirmation of Employment
• Copy of the ship's crew list or voyage plan
• Seaman’s Book
• STCW certificates (Basic Safety, Security Awareness, etc.)
• Medical certificate (ENG1 or other international standard)

💡 The C1/D visa is often issued together with a B1 OCS visa if the vessel operates both in U.S. ports and the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) zone.