The first overwhelming thought that comes to mind when it comes to obtaining a US visa is, ‘There are so many different types of US visas like US immigrant visa, non-immigrant visa and so on! Which one is best for my visit? Yes, there are many components, but if your visit is just a brief stopover in the United States, you will need a US transit visa. A non-immigrant visa issued by the United States government that allows foreign nationals to enter the country and travel through it to their final destination is known as a US transit visa. It does not grant you the right to work in the United States or to stay in the country for an extended period of time. For your convenience, we have provided additional information about this visa type.

What is a US transit visa?

A US transit visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows foreign travellers to travel through the United States on their way to another country. The US visa – C type is the US transit visa. Authorities classify it as C-1, the most common visa for travelers transiting through the United States. C-2 transit visas are available for diplomatic international travellers passing through the United States. However, travelers must obtain a US transit visa from a US embassy or consulate before entering the country. Moreover, the visa holder must have valid travel documents, cannot enter the United States for leisure travel, social visits, or work-related purposes, and must leave the country within the time frame specified.

Who can apply for a US transit visa?

This visa is necessary for those who do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, are not Canadian or Bermudian citizens, or lack a valid US visa. However, to be eligible for a transit visa, a person must demonstrate that they are only visiting the United States for transit purposes and that they have sufficient financial resources to cover the cost of their stay.

The transit visa’s purpose is to ensure that visitors do not overstay their welcome in the United States. Moreover, to be eligible, travellers must have a valid passport, a ticket to a foreign country, and their final destination must be outside of the United States. Additionally, travellers may need to obtain a separate visa for the country they are visiting.

What is the process to get a US transit visa?

The next question that arises is ‘How to get a US transit visa?’ It follows the same procedure as applying for a tourist visa to the United States.

To apply for a US transit visa, the main requirements are –

• A valid passport – It must be printed, undamaged, and valid for at least six months beyond your US arrival.
• Confirmation of Non-Immigrant US visa application form – Fill out the online visa application form correctly. Print the confirmation page and bring it to your US Embassy interview.
• Visa payment receipt – This payment must be made at the same time as the online visa application form is submitted. However, even if your visa is denied, this fee is non-refundable.
• Photograph – While filling out your DS-160 form, you must upload a photo. The photo should be taken and uploaded in accordance with the US Embassy’s photo specifications. If your photo does not upload with your online application, you must bring a printed passport-size photo to your interview.
• Travel-related documents – Prepare a travel dossier with all necessary documents for your US transit and other destinations. Include proof that you are only transiting through the US. Do not intend to stay for travel or work, and have onward travel plans. Essential documents include:
  • Financial statements – Proof of sufficient funds for smooth transit.
  • Booked air tickets – Confirmed onward travel from the US.
  • Travel itinerary – Plans for your next destination.
  • Employment proof – Evidence of stable ties to your home country.

The application process is simple. All you have to do is:

• Fill out the DS-160 visa application form online. Provide accurate information, upload your photograph, pay the visa fees, and retain the confirmation page in the form of a printout.
• If applicable, schedule an interview at the US Embassy in your country. All visa applicants aged 14 to 79 must schedule an interview with the embassy. You should bring the appointment confirmation letter with you to the interview.
• However, then you gather all of the necessary documents. carry your financial statement and any related additional documents that confirm your purpose of visit. Confirmation of exit from the US after transit, and intent to return to your home country.
• Attend the interview on the scheduled date and provide biometric information. Then you must await the outcome of your visa application.

The US visa transit processing time is the same as a regular US travel visa takes. It varies from country to country. Even if you have provided a complete and error-free US visa application, it will take a couple of weeks to process and give an outcome. Moreover, it is always preferable to apply for US visa well in advance before your travel dates. Once approved, the visa is ready for you to use for your US transit.

And that’s all! Hope this post gave a head start as to what a US transit visa is and how to go about it!