What Yacht Crew Needs to Know About B1/B2 Visas and the Difference Between B1/B2 and C1/D Visas

For yacht crew members navigating international waters and visiting U.S. ports, understanding visa requirements is essential. This article explains the B1/B2 visa, specifically for yacht crew, and highlights the key differences between B1/B2 and C1/D visas. By understanding these visas, yacht crew can better manage their U.S. entry and stay.

What is the B1/B2 Visa?

The B1/B2 visa is a combined non-immigrant visa for short-term business and tourism visits to the United States:

• B1 Visa: For business activities such as meetings and conferences.
• B2 Visa: For tourism, including vacations and family visits.

Key Points for Yacht Crew:

1. Purpose of the B1/B2 Visa: The B1/B2 visa is ideal for yacht crew visiting the U.S. for business-related activities (e.g., maritime seminars) or for personal leisure.

2. Duration of Stay: This visa typically allows stays of up to six months per visit, with the exact duration determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

3. Application Process: To apply, complete the DS-160 form, pay the application fee, and attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Demonstrating your visit's purpose and proving strong ties to your home country are crucial.

4. Limitations: The B1/B2 visa does not permit employment or receiving payment from U.S. sources; it's strictly for specific business or tourism purposes.

How to Apply for a B1/B2 Visa

Applying for a B1/B2 visa involves several key steps:

1. Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the DS-160 form, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. This form gathers information about your travel plans.

2. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, which varies. Check the latest fee on the U.S. Department of State’s website.

3. Schedule Your Appointment: Book an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Appointment availability can vary, so plan ahead.

4. Prepare Your Documents: Assemble required documents including:

   • A valid passport with six months remaining.
   • A recent passport-sized photo.
   • Confirmation of DS-160 submission.
   • Visa fee receipt.
   • Proof of your visit’s purpose and strong ties to your home country.

5. Attend the Interview: Attend the visa interview where you’ll need to discuss your travel plans, visit purpose, and ties to your home country.

6. Receive Your Visa: If approved, your passport will be stamped with the B1/B2 visa, allowing you to travel to the U.S.

What is the C1/D Visa?

The C1/D visa is a non-immigrant visa tailored for crew members of vessels or aircraft traveling to the U.S. for their duties.

Key Points for Yacht Crew:

1. Purpose of the C1/D Visa: Specifically for crew members traveling to join or leave a vessel or aircraft. It is not for tourism or business unrelated to crew duties.

2. Duration of Stay: Typically allows for a stay of up to 29 days, focusing on crew-related activities.

3. Application Process: Involves completing the DS-160 form, paying the application fee, and attending an interview. Provide evidence of your crew position and need to enter the U.S.

4. Limitations: The C1/D visa restricts activities to crew duties only, prohibiting tourist or non-crew related business activities.

Key Differences Between B1/B2 and C1/D Visas

1. Purpose and Use:

   • B1/B2: Used for business and tourism. Suitable for yacht crew visiting for business or leisure.
   • C1/D: For crew members traveling to or from a vessel or aircraft.

2. Application Process:

   • B1/B2: Requires proof of visit purpose and strong home country ties.
   • C1/D: Requires proof of crew employment and intent to fulfill crew duties.

3. Duration of Stay:

   • B1/B2: Up to six months per visit.
   • C1/D: Up to 29 days, focused on crew duties.

4. Activities Permitted:

   • B1/B2: Allows business meetings, conferences, and tourism.
   • C1/D: Restricts activities to crew duties.

Understanding the B1/B2 and C1/D visas is essential for yacht crew navigating U.S. entry requirements. The B1/B2 visa offers flexibility for business and tourism, while the C1/D visa is specialized for crew duties. By grasping these differences, yacht crew can effectively manage their U.S. visits and focus on their maritime careers.