What are the U.S. transit visa application fees?
The application fee for a U.S. transit visa (C visa) is $185. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is ultimately denied.
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Last Update: 13-08-2024
Are you planning to pass through the United States en route to another destination? Navigating the intricacies of U.S. transit visas can seem daunting, but this guide aims to simplify the process.
A US Transit Visa for Indians, specifically the C-1 visa, is essential for those whose only purpose of entering the U.S. is to transit to another country.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the application process, eligibility, and requirements to ensure your transit through the U.S. is smooth and stress-free.
Whether you're connecting flights or need a short stay before your next travel segment, understanding the right visa and how to obtain it is crucial. Let's dive into the details to get you on your way!
Yes, if you plan to transit through the United States on your way to another country, you generally need a visa. The specific visa for this purpose is called a Transit (C) visa. This type of visa is intended for those whose travel through the U.S. is solely for transit purposes. The journey should be immediate and continuous, meaning you must have a clear travel plan with no unreasonable layovers.
A US transit visa, specifically the C-1 visa, is designed for individuals who need to pass through the United States en route to another country. This type of visa is ideal for travelers who do not plan to stay in the U.S. but must enter temporarily for the sole purpose of connecting flights or other modes of transport.
Eligibility for a US transit visa, specifically the C-1 visa, is primarily intended for individuals who need to pass through the United States en route to another country. Here are the main criteria that make someone eligible for this visa:
To apply for a transit visa, you must demonstrate during the visa interview that you meet these conditions. It’s crucial to have a confirmed onward ticket and to show that the primary intention of entering the U.S. is to pass through to your final destination.
DS-160 Form | Fill out the Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form |
Valid Passport |
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Recent Photograph |
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Appointment Letter | Bring a letter confirming that you have booked an appointment through the official visa appointment service. |
When preparing for the US visa photo specifications, it’s important to meet the specific requirements to ensure your application proceeds smoothly. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you capture the perfect visa photo:
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your photo meets the requirements for your US transit visa application, helping avoid any delays or issues with your submission.
Applying for a US transit visa for Indians involves several steps that are designed to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria for transit through the United States. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type
C-1 visa (transit) is specifically for those passing through the U.S. en route to another destination. Confirm this is the right visa for your travel needs.
Step 2: Fill Out the Visa Application
Complete the DS-160, the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application form. Make sure to fill it out accurately because once submitted, you cannot make changes. The DS-160 form is crucial, and you should read all guidelines carefully before submitting.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee
This fee is mandatory for all applicants and is non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is granted. After payment, your receipt may take up to one business day to activate. This receipt is important for scheduling your visa interview.
Step 4: Schedule Your Appointments
Log in to your profile on the visa appointment website using the credentials linked to your visa fee payment. You'll need to arrange two separate appointments:
To book these, you'll need your passport number, the receipt number from your visa fee payment, and the barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page.
Step 5: Attend Your Visa Appointments
At the VAC, you need to provide your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay), your DS-160 confirmation page, and a recent photograph. Make sure the photo meets the U.S. visa specifications.
Step 6: Track Your Visa Application
After your interview, if your visa is approved, you can pick up your passport and visa from the location you specified when booking your appointment. You will be notified by email and SMS when your passport is ready for pickup. Optional delivery services are also available.
The US transit visa (C-1) processing time can vary depending on several factors, including the specific US embassy or consulate where you apply, the volume of applications they are processing, and individual circumstances of the applicant.
To get a more accurate estimate of visa processing times, you can check the specific US embassy or consulate website where you plan to apply. They often provide updated information on current wait times for both scheduling an appointment and processing a visa application. Additionally, staying in touch with the embassy or consulate after your interview can provide updates on any delays or additional information needed for your application.
| Visa Type | Fee Type | US Transit Visa Fees |
C1 Visa | Embassy Fees | USD 185 (INR 15,540/-) |
Please note that this fee is non-refundable and may vary. Extra charges could apply based on changes in the foreign exchange rate, if you choose expedited processing, or if you opt for courier services for document delivery.
A US transit visa (C-1) is specifically designed for individuals who need to pass through the United States en route to another destination. Therefore, the duration of stay allowed on a transit visa is typically limited to the amount of time needed to complete the transit through the U.S.
Generally, transit visa holders are permitted to stay for a maximum of 29 days or until the date they must depart to continue to their final destination, whichever is shorter. This time frame is intended to cover the period necessary for the layover or connection between flights or other modes of transport.
It’s important to note that the exact duration of your authorized stay will be determined and recorded by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry upon your arrival in the U.S. They will issue a Form I-94, which records the arrival and departure date and indicates the length of stay granted. Transit visa holders are expected to leave the U.S. within the timeframe specified on the Form I-94 to avoid violating visa conditions.
We hope this comprehensive guide has illuminated the path to obtaining your U.S. transit visa. Remember, the key to a smooth application process lies in preparation and understanding the specific requirements of the C-1 visa.
Make sure to plan ahead, arrange all necessary documents, and adhere to the application steps meticulously. If you have further questions or need clarification, don't hesitate to check the official U.S. Department of State website or consult visa experts.
Safe travels, and may your journey through the United States be just one more smooth leg in your global adventures!
The application fee for a U.S. transit visa (C visa) is $185. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is ultimately denied.
Yes, with a U.S. transit visa, you are permitted to leave the airport during your layover. This can be particularly useful if you have a long wait between flights and would like to explore a bit or stay overnight in a hotel.
Yes, If your travel plans include a layover in the U.S. and you do not qualify for a visa exemption, you will need to apply for a transit visa. This visa allows you to legally pass through the U.S. en route to your final destination.
You can check the status of your application online by visiting the website of the U.S. Department of State. You'll need to enter your application ID or case number, which you would have received when you submitted your application.
Yes, you can still apply for a transit visa even if you have been previously denied entry to the U.S. However, it's important to address the reasons for the previous denial in your new application and provide any new information or changes in circumstances that might affect the decision.
If your primary intention during the stop is simply to transit through the U.S., a C-1 visa would be appropriate. However, if you plan to use this time for tourism, visiting friends, or sightseeing, you should apply for a B-1/B-2 visa, as these activities require a visa that permits leisure or business activities.
You can apply for both visas using just one DS-160 visa application form and by paying a single visa fee. When you go for your visa interview, mention that you'd like to be considered for both the C1/D and the B1/B2 visas. If both are approved, there's no need to pay an additional fee. This combination of visa applications is specifically available for C1/D and B1/B2 visas but not for other types of visas.
While holding a C1/D visa, you might be permitted to enter the U.S. for tourism or other personal activities during your stay at the port. However, whether you can do so is entirely up to the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry. It's important to have proper documentation and a clear explanation for your plans during your entry interview.
The processing time for a USA visa for Indians can vary depending on factors such as the workload at the US consulate, time of the year, etc. Generally, it takes around 7 to 10 working days to get your visa processed upon submission of necessary documents at the visa application centre.
However, the US tourist visa waiting time for the appointment at the visa centre can take 6-12 months. So, effectively, the processing time for a US B-2 visa can range anywhere between 6-12 months.
It's recommended to apply for a USA visa a year in advance of your intended travel dates to allow for potential delays in processing. Using fast-track processing services may expedite the visa processing time.
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