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Apply for an A Visa

Discover the requirements, categories, and benefits of the A Visa for foreign government officials and diplomats. Learn how to apply and maintain A-1, A-2, and A-3 visas for U.S. entry.

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What Is an A Visa?

The A Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for diplomats and foreign government officials traveling to the U.S. on official business. It allows entry for those performing duties on behalf of their home government and is typically issued quickly due to its diplomatic nature.

Key Benefits of the A Visa

  • Expedited processing due to diplomatic importance
  • Diplomatic protections and immunities (varies by category)
  • Exemption from certain U.S. taxes and fees
  • No requirement for employment authorization documentation (EAD) for A-1 and A-2 holders
  • Ability to bring dependents and domestic staff on corresponding visa categories

Who Is Eligible for an A Visa?

Eligibility for the A visa is strictly limited to individuals entering the United States to engage in official governmental activities. The traveler must:

  • Be employed by a recognized foreign government
  • Be traveling solely to perform official duties
  • Be accredited by their government to the U.S. Department of State
  • Apply through the correct diplomatic or consular channels

Immediate family members (spouses and children under the age of 21) may also be eligible for the same visa classification.

Diplomatic meeting with government officials

Types of A Visas

There are three primary subcategories under the A visa classification:

A-1 Visa:

For:

  • ★
    Heads of state or government (e.g., presidents, prime ministers)
  • ★
    Ambassadors and diplomats
  • ★
    Consular officers traveling for official duties
  • ★
    Immediate family members of the above individuals

Benefits:

  • ★
    Exempt from certain taxes
  • ★
    Full diplomatic immunity
  • ★
    Can remain in the U.S. as long as officially recognized by the Department of State

A-2 Visa:

For:

  • ★
    Full-time government employees traveling for official purposes (e.g., military personnel, support staff)
  • ★
    Foreign officials not eligible for A-1

Benefits:

  • ★
    Diplomatic privileges without full immunity
  • ★
    Duration tied to official assignment

A-3 Visa:

For:

  • ★
    Personal employees, attendants, or domestic workers accompanying A-1 or A-2 visa holders

Requirements:

  • ★
    Employment contract ensuring fair wages and working conditions
  • ★
    Non-immigrant intent must be demonstrated

How to Apply for an A Visa

Step 1: DS-160 Form

Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and print the confirmation page.

Step 2: Schedule Visa Interview (if required)

In many cases, A visa applicants are exempt from attending a formal interview. However, it depends on the post's specific procedures.

Step 3: Submit Diplomatic Note

A diplomatic note (also called a note verbale) must be submitted. It should detail:

  • Traveler's identity
  • Official title and purpose of travel
  • Duration of intended stay
  • Position within the foreign government

Step 4: Attend Appointment and Submit Documents

If required, attend the appointment and provide biometric data, passport, DS-160 confirmation, diplomatic note, and passport-sized photo.

Duration and Renewal of the A Visa

The validity period of an A visa varies depending on the applicant's role and the nature of the assignment. Typically, A-1 and A-2 visa holders are allowed to stay in the U.S. for the duration of their official duties.

A visas can be extended or renewed as long as the individual remains in official status. No specific maximum length is set, but ongoing recognition by the U.S. Department of State is necessary.

Restrictions and Considerations

  • A visa holders must not engage in private employment while in the U.S.

  • A-3 visa holders must maintain a legal and valid work contract

  • A visa status ends immediately upon termination of official duties

  • U.S. Department of State must be notified of any changes in assignment or status

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