Obtaining a visa for transit through the USA
For a stopover in the U.S., a foreign traveler must have authorization to transit U.S. territory. Transit visas allow travelers to transit through the United States on their way to a final destination.
For a stopover in the United States: It is not necessary to apply for a transit visa. You can simply apply for ESTA travel authorization by clicking on ESTA online form.
What is a transit visa?
An American transit visa is an authorization to enter the United States. It allows you to stay in the USA for a stopover. The visa holder must continue his trip and leave the United States as planned.
Who can apply for a transit visa?
All foreign travelers making a stopover in the United States can apply for an American transit visa. Their final destination must not be in the USA, otherwise they will have to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa or any other type of US visa.
There are other specific cases, such as :
- Foreign nationals or UN officials can also obtain a transit visa for UN operations in New York ;
- Foreign government officials traveling on government business can obtain a transit visa for a stopover in the USA.
What are the different transit visas?
The transit visa categories are as follows:
- C1 visa for traditional travellers in transit
- C2 visa for travelers in transit to UN headquarters
- C3 visa for members of foreign governments