The basics of the US crewmember visa for pilots and cabin crew flying into the United States, and the questions that come up on business jets.
THE BASICS
C-1/D in Four Points
What C-1/D Is
The Combined Transit and Crewmember Visa. D is for crew arriving to work on an aircraft or ship; C-1 covers transit through the US to join one (9 FAM 402.8).
Who Needs It
Crew working on an airline or other commercial flight, doing work needed for its normal operation. Travelling as a passenger, such as positioning to the jet, is not D; that needs a B-1 or another visa.
How Long You Can Stay
Crew landing on a D is limited to 29 days, and you must leave on the same aircraft or another with definite departure arrangements (8 CFR 252.1). C-1 transit is also limited to 29 days.
How to Apply
Fill in the DS-160 online, pay the application fee ($185 when checked, plus a reciprocity fee for some nationalities) and attend the interview with the DS-160 confirmation page. A letter from the operator is commonly asked for.
BUSINESS AVIATION
Questions Crew Ask
I Fly a Private Jet. Do I Need a D?
Maybe not. The Foreign Affairs Manual treats crew of private yachts as B-1 and says private aircraft crew are judged the same way (9 FAM 402.8). Charter crew working a commercial flight are more likely D. Ask the consulate before you apply.
My Country Is in the Visa Waiver Program. Can I Use ESTA?
Generally not for working as crew: the Visa Waiver Program is for visitors, so crew usually need a visa. Check with CBP or the consulate for your situation.
Can My Family Come on My D Visa?
No. There is no dependent D visa; family members apply for their own visa, such as a B-2.
How Does CallSign Help?
Add your visas in Docs with their expiry dates. Trips show which countries need a visa for your passports, and the Visa Planner says what to apply for and by when.
SOURCES
Check the Official Pages
US Department of State
travel.state.gov: Crewmember Visa
travel.state.gov: Fees for Visa Services
Rules
9 FAM 402.8 (fam.state.gov)
8 CFR 252.1 (ecfr.gov)
About This Guide
General information checked October 2026, not legal or immigration advice. Fees and rules change; the consulate decides each case.
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