United States•North America3–21 days
USD $185
Varies by filing options
29 days
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
No dependents
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Transit through the United States en route to another country. Must have confirmed onward travel.
The C-1 is a US transit visa for foreign nationals who must pass through American airports or seaports en route to a third country. It authorizes entry solely for the purpose of continuous transit — not tourism, business, or any other activity — and requires confirmed onward travel documentation.
Applicants must show a confirmed onward ticket to a destination outside the US, a valid passport, and permission to enter the destination country. CBP grants a stay of up to 29 days, but typically issues only the time needed for connection. Extensions and change of status are not permitted.
This visa is ideal for travelers whose international itinerary requires a US stopover — such as a connecting flight or cruise port call — with no intent to enter the country.
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| Initial grant | 29 days |
Traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the US en route to a third country
Confirmed onward ticket (common carrier ticket or other proof of transportation) to a destination outside the US
Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond intended stay, with limited country exceptions)
Permission or visa to enter the onward destination country
Sufficient funds to cover costs during the US layover
Must not engage in any activity other than transit (no sightseeing, working, or attending meetings)
Note: Canadian and Bermudian citizens are exempt; VWP-qualifying nationals may use ESTA instead
Valid passport
DS-160 confirmation page (with barcode)
MRV fee payment receipt
One digital or printed photo meeting State Department specifications
Confirmed onward transportation documentation (ticket or boarding pass)
Visa or residence permit for the onward destination (if required)
Bank statements or evidence of ties to home country may be requested
| DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application | Fill online |
| I-192 Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant | Fill online |
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