Combined Crew Member Visa (C1/D)

Individual C-1/D visas are issued to crew members of international airlines and to aliens required for the normal operation and service of a vessel. In the case of the latter, in determining who qualifies for the C-1/D visa, we take into consideration the individual's responsibilities and activities on the ship. For example the most commonly issued C-1/D visas are to crew members of cruise liners and include, but are not limited to, beauticians, entertainers and lifeguards.

Dry Dock

Crewmen who are to service a vessel in dry dock require the appropriate work visas unless the work is being done under warranty, in which case they qualify for the B-1 visa.

Private Yacht

If you will be working on a private yacht sailing out of a foreign port and cruising in U.S. waters for more than 29 days, you require a B-1 visa.

Holiday

If you wish to remain in the United States for a holiday after your period of employment, you will be required to apply for admission as a visitor on a B-2 visa.  During the initial interview, crew visa applicants may request that this B2 visa be issued in addition to the C-1/D visa. In this instance the MRV fee is waived for the second visa, but any reciprocity based issuance fees will still apply. 

Dependents of Crewmen

Dependents of crewmen (D) visa holders who are accompanying the alien to the U.S. may be eligible for B-2 visas. Note: Visa free travel under the Visa Waiver Program is only available to those who enter the United States aboard a participating carrier. Most shipping companies are not participating carriers.

Fees

There are two parts to the nonimmigrant visa fee: the application fee and the issuance fee.