UNCLASSIFIED (U)

9 FAM 402.3

(U) Officials and Employees of Foreign Governments and International Organizations – A, C-2, C-3, G, NATO Visas, and diplomatic type and official type visas

(CT:VISA-3000;   11-12-2024)
(Office of Origin:  CA/VO)

9 FAM 402.3-1  (U) Authorities

9 FAM 402.3-1(A)  (U) Immigration and Nationality Act

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) INA 101(a)(15)(A) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(A)); INA 101(a)(15)(C) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(C)); INA 212(d)(8) (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(8)); INA 101(a)(15)(G)
(8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(G)).

9 FAM 402.3-1(B)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-1254;   03-18-2021)

(U) 22 CFR 41.12; 22 CFR 41.21; 22 CFR 41.22; 22 CFR 41.23; 22 CFR 41.24; 22 CFR 41.25; 22 CFR 41.26; 22 CFR 41.27; 22 CFR 41.111.

9 FAM 402.3-1(C)  (U) United States Code

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 U.S.C. 288; 22 U.S.C. 611 - 613.

9 FAM 402.3-1(D)  (U) Public Law

(CT:VISA-1093;   07-09-2020)

(U) Section 301 of the Visa Waiver Permanent Program Act (Public Law 106-396); Section 203 of the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (WWTVPRA) (Public Law 110-457); Section 123 of the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-425).

9 FAM 402.3-1(E)  (U) Treaties and Agreements

(CT:VISA-1134;   08-06-2020)

a. (U) Agreement Between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty Regarding the Status of Their Forces ("NATO SOFA");

b. (U) Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters Set Up Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty ("Paris Protocol");

c. (U) Agreement on the Status of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, National Representatives, and International Staff ("Ottawa Agreement");

d. (U) Agreement Among the States Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty and the other States Participating in the Partnership for Peace Regarding the Status of their Forces ("PfP SOFA"); and

e. (U) Further Additional Protocol to the PfP SOFA ("PfP SOFA 2").

9 FAM 402.3-2  (U) Overview

9 FAM 402.3-2(A)  (U) Foreign Government Officials; A Visas

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) Diplomats and other foreign government officials traveling to the United States to engage solely in official duties or activities on behalf of their national government must obtain A-1 or A-2 visas before entering the United States; they cannot travel using visitor visas or under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).  With certain exceptions, such as the Head of State or Head of Government (and their immediate family) -- who qualify for an A-1 visa regardless of the purpose of travel -- the applicant's position within their country’s government and purpose of travel determine whether they qualify for an A-1 or A-2 visa.  Foreign military (armed service personnel and civilians) from non-NATO member countries may also be classifiable A-2.  See 9 FAM 402.3-5 below for details.

9 FAM 402.3-2(B)  (U) Officials in Transit; C Visas

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

a. (U) C-2 Visas:  C-2 visas are appropriate for an applicant who qualifies as a person entitled to pass in transit to and from the United Nations Headquarters District and a foreign country, under the provisions of paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of section 11 of the Headquarters Agreement with United Nations. 

b. (U) C-3 Visas:  An accredited official of a foreign government proceeding in immediate and continuous transit through the United States on official business for that government is classifiable C-3, if the foreign government grants similar privileges to officials of the United States.  C-3 is also the appropriate classification for qualifying immediate family members of such officials as well as the personal or domestic employees of such officials.

c.  (U) See 9 FAM 402.3-6 below for details.

9 FAM 402.3-2(C)  (U) Persons Associated with International Organizations; G Visas

(CT:VISA-362;   05-04-2017)

(U) Foreign government officials and employees traveling on assignment to their country's mission to a designated international organization or for temporary meetings of a designated international organization should obtain G-1, G-2, or G-3 visas; they cannot travel using visitor visas or under the VWP.  Officers and employees of designated international organizations should obtain G-4 visas; they cannot travel using visitor visas or under the VWP.  See 9 FAM 402.3-7(B) below for details.

9 FAM 402.3-2(D)  (U) North Atlantic Treaty Organization Representatives, Officials, and Employees; NATO Visas

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

(U) NATO visas are issued to help facilitate travel for certain NATO and NATO member country representatives, officials, and employees, including military members (armed service personnel and civilians) pursuant to various NATO agreements.  NATO NIV classifications stem from various NATO agreements and are regulated by 22 CFR 41.12 and 41.25.  For armed service personnel who meet the definition as a member of a "force" under either the Agreement Between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty Regarding the Status of Their Forces ("NATO SOFA") or the Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters Set Up Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty ("Paris Protocol") (see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E) below), a visa is not required; however, such member of a force may choose to apply for a visa rather than traveling without a visa.  NATO visa classes are defined more fully below at 9 FAM 402.3-8 below.

9 FAM 402.3-2(E)  (U) Personal or Domestic Employees of Officials; A-3, G-5 and NATO-7 Visas

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) Personal employees of an employer classified as an A-1 or A-2 (A-3 visas), G-1 through G-4 (G-5 visas), or NATO-1 through NATO-6 (NATO-7 visas) must obtain an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa; they cannot travel using visitor visas or under the VWP.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9 below for details.

9 FAM 402.3-3  (U) Classification codes

(CT:VISA-1828;   09-12-2023)

(U) 22 CFR 41.12 identifies the following classification symbols for officials and employees of foreign governments and international organization personnel in accordance with INA 101(a)(15)(A), INA 101(a)(15)(C) (as well as INA 212(d)(8)), and INA 101(a)(15)(G), and travel provisions in various NATO agreements:

9 FAM 402.3-4  (U) General Information

9 FAM 402.3-4(A)  (U) No Alternative to A or G Visa Classification

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) In accordance with 22 CFR 41.22(b), an applicant classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(A) must be issued an A visa, even if eligible for another nonimmigrant classification and must enter the United States in that status.  For example, if a foreign government official is traveling temporarily for meetings at the embassy and for meetings at the World Bank during the same trip, the travel is classifiable A-1 or A-2 (A-2 for most TDY) rather than classifiable G-2 or G-3.  In accordance with 22 CFR 41.24(b)(4), an applicant not classified under INA 101(a)(15)(A) but classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(G) shall be classified under INA 101(a)(15)(G), even if also eligible for another nonimmigrant classification and must enter the United States in that status.  For example, if an employee of the World Bank is traveling temporarily for meetings at the World Bank but will also attend a golf tournament as a spectator during the same trip, the travel is classifiable G-4.  If, however, the applicant has future travel plans involving multiple trips where the activities on one trip are classifiable as A type travel and the activities on a separate future trip involve only activities classifiable as G type travel, you may issue both an A visa and a G visa for the separate trips.  These rules apply equally to entry under the VWP.  Foreign officials who intend to travel to the United States on official business must, therefore, obtain the appropriate A or G visa before their entry.  Furthermore, persons who enter the United States under the VWP may not change status or adjust to another status in the United States. 

b. (U) Similar rules apply to NATO.  Therefore, an applicant classifiable NATO-1 through NATO-7, should obtain a NATO visa, if not exempt from the visa requirement, and enter the United States in NATO nonimmigrant status.  Foreign military personnel and civilians of a NATO member country are usually classifiable NATO when traveling in connection with their official duties; they are rarely classifiable A or G. 

9 FAM 402.3-4(B)  (U) Limited Ineligibilities Apply

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, and NATO-6 Applicants:  A-1, A-2, G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-4, and NATO-6 visa applicants are subject to limited grounds of ineligibility (see 22 CFR 41.21(d)).  Of the INA 212(a) ineligibilities, only INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), and INA 212(a)(3)(C) apply.

b. (U) C-2 and C-3 Applicants:  Of the INA 212(a) ineligibilities, only INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), INA 212(a)(3)(C) and INA 212(a)(7)(B) apply to C-2 and C-3 applicants (except all ineligibilities apply to C-3 domestic workers).

c.  (U) A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Applicants:  A-3, C-3 (domestic workers only), G-5, and NATO-7 applicants are subject to all the INA 212(a) ineligibilities and INA 214(b).

d. (U) If an applicant appears to be ineligible on grounds other than INA 212(a) (for example under a Presidential Proclamation), send an AO to L/CA.  Before issuing an A, C-2, C-3, G or NATO visa to an applicant who would otherwise be ineligible under INA 212(a)(2)(E) if such applicant were applying for a visa other than an A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-4, or NATO-6 NIV, you must submit an AO to L/CA.  See 9 FAM 302.3-7(C).

e. Unavailable

f.  Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(C)  (U) Issuing Visas Only Upon Appropriate Request and In Appropriate Travel Document

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Written Requests:

(1)  (U) With limited exceptions (see paragraph d. and e. below), you may issue a visa in the A, C-2, C-3, G, or NATO categories only upon receipt of a note from the appropriate foreign office, mission, international organization, or NATO authority.  Scan the note into the application record in the NIV system.

(2)  (U) You must receive requests for World Bank officers and employees via efax from World Bank Headquarters (HRVisa@worldbank.org) before issuing visas.

(3)  (U) All officers and employees of the United Nations require a cable/note from the United Nations Transportation office, except that a designated international organization listed in 9 FAM 402.3-7(M), other than the United Nations itself, may provide its own request.  See 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(3) and 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(5) below.  The United Nations' Organizational Chart (publicly available online) is also a useful reference in determining which offices are considered part of the United Nations.

b. (U) The note must include the following information concerning the principal applicant:

(1)  (U) Name and date of birth;

(2)  (U) Position and title;

(3)  (U) Place of assignment or visit;

(4)  (U) Purpose of travel;

(5)  (U) Brief description of duties;

(6)  (U) Travel date;

(7)  (U) Anticipated length of stay or tour of duty in the United States; and

(8)  (U) The names, relationships, and dates of birth of any dependents and other members of household who will be accompanying or joining the principal.

c.  (U) For any non-TDY foreign government official or employee who will serve at a diplomatic or consular mission (including a mission to an international organization) or at a miscellaneous foreign government office in the United States for 90 days or more, the diplomatic note must be issued by the sending government’s foreign ministry, and not by a mission or miscellaneous foreign government office in the United States.  In the case of a career official currently assigned outside of the United States, you may accept a note from the embassy or consulate outside the United States where the official is currently assigned, if the note certifies that the foreign ministry requests the visa application.

d. (U) In emergency situations, you may issue a visa upon the oral request of a competent foreign authority, international organization, or NATO.  Make a note in the NIV system regarding the request (e.g., name and position of requester, date of request, etc.).  Also solicit written confirmation from the appropriate foreign office, international organization, or NATO authority.  If you issue a visa based on an incomplete note due to unusual circumstances, solicit the missing information from the appropriate foreign office, international organization, or NATO authority promptly.      

e. (U) An application for an A visa should not be accepted for an applicant who is not a resident of the consular district without the requisite diplomatic note unless the applicant is a current head of state or head of government whose eligibility for A-1 status is not in question.

f.  (U) Travel Documents:  An A, C-2, C-3, G, or NATO visa must only be placed in a travel document that meets the definition of a “passport” as defined in INA 101(a)(30), that is a travel document issued by a competent authority showing the bearer’s origin, identity and nationality if any, which is valid for admission of the bearer into a foreign country.  In addition, the following three travel documents have been designated by the Secretary of State to be the "equivalent of a diplomatic passport".

(1)  (U) European Union Laissez-Passer (EULP):  The EULP is a bound booklet in passport format. The cover is dark blue in color and bears the gold embossed seal of the European Union (EU).  Only an A-1, A-2, or G-3 visa may be placed in an EULP.  The EULP has been designated by the Secretary of State as equivalent to a diplomatic passport, therefore the A-1, A-2, and G-3 visas issued in the EULP may be issued as diplomatic type visas.  Before issuance of a visa in the EULP, you must receive written confirmation from the appropriate EU office indicating that the applicant is traveling on official EU business.  Visa validity for the visa issued in a EULP should correspond with the reciprocity schedule of the applicant’s country of nationality in which case both the EULP and national passport should be presented with the visa application.  The visa validity should not exceed the validity of the EULP.  See also 9 FAM 403.9-3(A)(3).

(2)  (U) United Nations Laissez-Passer (UNLP):  The UNLP is a bound booklet in passport format.  The cover bears the gold embossed seal of the United Nations, and is either red or light blue in color, depending upon the rank of the recipient.  The red cover UNLP has been designated by the Secretary of State as “equivalent to a diplomatic passport” and should be treated as a diplomatic passport.  The blue UNLP has not been designated as “equivalent to a diplomatic passport” but may still be used as a regular passport.  Applicants presenting a red cover UNLP and falling within one of the categories listed in 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(1) paragraph (f) below may be issued a diplomatic type G-4 visa.   See 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(6) for further guidance on issuing G-4 visas in a UNLP.

(3)  (U) The Palestinian Authority (PA VIP) passport is a red bound booklet in passport format typically issued to Palestinian political, economic, religious and security high leaders, including officials and representatives of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and officials of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Individuals may hold both PA and PLO roles. The PA VIP passport has been designated by the Secretary of State as “equivalent to a diplomatic passport.” PA VIP passport holders traveling on behalf of the PA or PLO for official PA or PLO business presenting an official note from the appropriate office within the PA or PLO may be issued diplomatic type B-1 visas for their official travel. The official note should list the applicant’s name and date of birth, position and title, place of assignment or visit, purpose of travel, brief description of duties, travel date, anticipated length of stay or tour of duty in the United States, and the names, relationships, and dates of birth of any dependents who will be accompanying or joining the principal applicant.

(4)  (U) Travel documents issued by international organizations (other than the EU, the United Nations, or PA VIP passport as listed above) do not meet the definition of a “passport” as defined in INA 101(a)(30).  Therefore, visas must not be placed in these travel documents.  Such travel documents include, but are not limited to, the travel documents issued by the Organization of American States (OAS) (see 9 FAM 402.3-7(E)(2)), the World Bank, and INTERPOL.  See also 9 FAM 403.9-3(A)(2).

9 FAM 402.3-4(D)  (U) Confirmation of Official Position and Purpose of Travel; Questionable Applications

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) If a foreign mission, or an individual attached to such a mission, has presented a diplomatic note which fraudulently portrays an applicant qualifying for A or G visa classification, you may confirm their official position and the reason for travel with the appropriate office, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  You may also call the applicant in for an interview. This should be done in situations where fraud concerns warrant a delay in processing.  If you have any questions, contact CA/VO/DO/DL and L/CA.

9 FAM 402.3-4(E)  (U) Waiver of Personal Appearance/Interviews

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

a. (U) Under the provisions of 22 CFR 41.102(b)(1) and (2), you are authorized to waive personal appearances/interviews for A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1 through G-4, and NATO-1 through NATO-6 applicants, as well as applicants for diplomatic type or, in certain cases, official type visas.  An applicant may qualify for a diplomatic type or official type visa even if not classifiable as A, C-2, C-3, G, or NATO. See 9 FAM 402.3-10 below regarding visa type.  Pursuant to 22 CFR 41.103(a)(3) even if a personal appearance of a visa applicant is waived, the filing of an application is not waived.

b. (U) Normally you should waive the personal interview requirement for bona fide A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3 (except domestic workers), G-1 through G-4, and NATO-1 through NATO-6 visa applicants who are citizens of, or on assignment to, the host country where they applied for a visa.  However, you may wish to interview an individual if a review of the application and supporting documentation raises questions concerning the applicant’s eligibility for the visa classification, including cases where it is not clear whether an A-2 or G-1 applicant is a government employee or a domestic worker classifiable A-3 or G-5 is a personal or government employee (see 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(1) paragraph c below).  You may also wish to interview non-resident visa applicants, particularly those who could have applied for a visa in their home country and who do not have a clear reason for seeking their visa elsewhere.  As a reminder, in accordance with 9 FAM 403.2-4(C), neither residence nor physical presence is required for diplomatic type applications for A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3 (except domestic workers), G-1 through G-4, and NATO-1 through NATO-6 classifications, but you have discretion to request an interview for any such applicants, in accordance with guidance at 9 FAM 403.2-4(C).

c.  (U) Waiver of personal appearance does not automatically include waiver of fingerprints; these are two separate requirements.  A-1, A-2, C-3 (except domestic workers), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, and NATO-1 through NATO-6 visa applicants are exempt from fingerprint requirements.  Qualification for a diplomatic type or official type visa (of any other NIV classification) does not provide waiver or exemption from fingerprinting requirements.  See 9 FAM 303.7-4(B) for additional information regarding fingerprint waiver or exemption.

9 FAM 402.3-4(F)  (U) No Fees

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

a. (U) MRV Fees: There are no MRV processing fees for A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1 through G-4, or NATO-1 through NATO-6 applicants.  These exemptions also apply to personal or domestic employees in the A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa categories.  There is also no MRV fee for applicants exempted by an international agreement as determined by the Department, including those covered by Section 11 of the United Nations Headquarters Agreement such as applicants for a B-1 visa who are assigned, for any length of time, to an official observer mission to the United Nations or applicants for I visas who are media representatives accredited by the United Nations.  Moreover, applicants issued a diplomatic type visa (regardless of visa classification), as described in 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(4) below, are exempt from the MRV fee, irrespective of whether the travel is official or non-official.  This fee exemption is not accorded to recipients of official type visas under 9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(2) below (unless the recipient qualifies for a fee exemption on some other basis, such as receiving an official type visa in one of the A, G, or NATO visa classifications).  Applicants issued diplomatic type visas in passports that have been designated as "equivalent to a diplomatic passport" are also eligible for this fee exemption. 

b. (U) Reciprocity Fees: Except in limited cases, reciprocity fees are charged based on reciprocity for all NIV categories, including for A, C-3, G (except UN travel), and NATO visas. No reciprocity fee shall be collected for applicants coming to the United States in transit to and from the headquarters district of the United Nations in accordance with the provisions of the Headquarters Agreement (such as C-2 applicants, applicants for G visas for travel to the United Nations, applicants for B-1 visa who are assigned, for any length of time, to an official observer mission to the United Nations, or applicants for I visas who are media representatives accredited by the United Nations) as such applicants must be issued a visa  gratis pursuant to INA 281.  You must look to the visa classification itself (not the type of visa) to determine the reciprocity fee for applicants applying for a diplomatic type or official type visa.  All PA or PLO officials who qualify for a diplomatic type B1/B2 for official PA or PLO business are exempt from reciprocity fees. 

9 FAM 402.3-4(G)  (U) Visa Validity - Full Validity vs. Limited Validity

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) General Guidance:  General guidance relating to visa validity can be found in 9 FAM 403.9-4(B).  Follow the general guidance except as provided in this section for certain A, C, G, or NATO visa applicants. 

b. (U) Principal Applicants:  Principal applicants who qualify for A, C-2, C-3, G, or NATO visas should be issued the full validity allowed by reciprocity.  In some instances, however, due to fraud concerns, prior abuse of A or G visas, and/or the purpose of travel, a limited visa may be justified.  For example, a government employee with limited prior travel who will visit the United States on a one-time basis for a short period does not necessarily require a multi-year visa to conduct their official duties.

c. (U) Immediate Family: The validity of an A, C-3, G, or NATO visa issued to an immediate family member of the principal applicant should not exceed the validity of the principal applicant's visa, unless the family member is independently classifiable as a principal applicant entitled to A, C-3, G, or NATO visa classification.

d. (U) A-3, G-5, and NATO-7:  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(7) below regarding visa validity for A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 visas.  

9 FAM 402.3-4(H)  (U) Visa Annotations

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) Annotate A, C-2, C-3, G, and NATO visas.  Annotations for each visa classification should follow the guidance provided below.  Additional annotations may also be needed (see paragraph (14) below). 

(1)  (U) Foreign Government Officials Assigned to a Mission in the United States for 90 Days or More: 

(a)  (U) Annotate the visa of a principal applicant to reflect their place of employment.  For example:

      EMBASSY OF Z
WASHINGTON, DC

(b)  (U) Visa annotations for foreign government officials assigned to a mission to a designated international organization should reflect the mission, the IO with which it is associated, and the location.  For example:

      PERMANENT MISSION OF Z TO UN
NEW YORK, NY

(2)  (U) Immediate Family Members of Foreign Government Officials Assigned to a Mission in the United States:  Annotate the visa of an immediate family member (e.g., spouse, qualifying son or daughter) of a foreign government official to reflect the principal applicant's name and place of employment.  For example:

      PRINCIPAL APPLICANT: JOHN DOE, EMBASSY OF Z
WASHINGTON, DC

(3)  (U) International Organization Officers and Employees (Whether Assigned to the IO in the United States or Traveling Temporarily for IO Related Activities):  

(a)  (U) Annotate the visa of a principal applicant to reflect their place of employment and/or purpose of travel.  For example: 

      NAME OF DESIGNATED IO
NEW YORK, NY

      TDY (if applicable for travel less than 90 days)

(b)  (U) If an IO officer or employee is expected to travel on behalf of the IO for multiple purposes, you may annotate accordingly.  For example:

      "NAME OF DESIGNATED IO; NEW YORK, NY; TDY/TRANSIT EXPECTED"

(4)  (U) Immediate Family Members of International Organization Officers and Employees:  Annotate the visa of an immediate family member of an international organization officer or employee to reflect the principal applicant's name and place of employment.  For example:

      PRINCIPAL APPLICANT: JANE DOE, NAME OF DESIGNATED IO
NEW YORK, NY

(5)  (U) Foreign Government Officials on Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel (Less than 90 days):  

(a)  (U) Include "TDY" (for temporary duty) in the annotation field of a machine readable visa (MRV) issued to the recipient of an A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, or G-3 visa who is traveling to the United States for less than 90 days.  Include the intended place of TDY as well as the sending organization if not clear from the U.S. destination, in the annotation.  For example:

      CONSULATE GENERAL OF Z
(TDY)

      Or

      UNGA

      NAME OF COUNTRY DELEGATION (TDY)

(b)  (U) The request for an A or G visa must clearly specify that the official is traveling for a temporary assignment of less than 90 days, and such information should be included in the note received pursuant to 9 FAM 402.3-4(C) above.  Absent this information, you are to seek clarification about the length of the assignment from the authorities concerned and document your findings in the case remarks.

(c)  (U) If a foreign government official is expected to travel on behalf of the government for multiple trips, you may annotate the visa to flag that future TDY trips are expected.  For example: "CONSULATE GENERAL OF Z (TDY); FUTURE TDY EXPECTED"

(6)  (U) A-2 TDY Visas for Antiterrorism Assistance Training (ATA): 

(a)  (U) The validity and duration of an A-2 visa issued to participants in Diplomatic Security’s Office of Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) training courses must be limited to a single entry and limited to the length of the specific course in which the applicant is to participate and reasonable transportation time domestically to and from the training site.  Annotate the visa as follows: “ATA training, commencing on (date) and ending on (date).”

(b)  (U) With written consent of the sending government and the concurrence of both the Consular Section Chief and the Regional Security Officer (RSO), the annotation on an A-2 visa issued to an ATA participant may also include identification of a specific period, of up to 30 days after the training period, that the applicant intends to remain in the United States for personal reasons.

(7)  (U) A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Visas: 

(a)  (U) A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 visas issued to personal or domestic employees of employers classified A-1 or A-2 (A-3 visa), G-1 through G-4 (G-5 visa), or NATO-1 through NATO-6 (NATO-7 visa) must be annotated with the name of the employer and place of employment.  Also indicate the employer’s nationality using the abbreviations in 9 FAM 102.5-2.  For example, the annotation for an A-3 domestic worker hired by the Italian Consul General in New York should read:

          EMP: Luigi Marinara, ITLY

          Consul General

          Italian Consulate General

          New York, NY

(b)  (U) Check for the required prenotification before issuing an A-3, G-5 or NATO-7.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(2).

(8)  (U) Privatized INTELSAT Employees:  In addition to using the standard annotation for G-4 visas, the G-4 visas issued to qualifying privatized INTELSAT officers and/or employees and their immediate family should include the following additional line at the end of the annotation:

      “ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 301 OF Public Law 106-396.”

(9)  (U) G-4 for Transit Purposes: 

(a)  (U) Officers and employees of designated international organizations who are not assigned to or traveling for official duties in the United States, but who are transiting on behalf of a designated international organization may be accorded G-4 classification.  Endorse G‑4 visas issued to applicants solely for transit purposes as follows:

          VALID FOR IMMEDIATE AND CONTINUOUS TRANSIT ONLY

(b)  (U) If an applicant who is transiting the United States expects to spend time in the United States for personal business or pleasure and will engage in no official activities while in the United States, the applicant must also possess a B visa.

(c)  (U) If an international organization employee is transiting for one trip but is expected to travel on behalf of the international organization for multiple trips, including trips that require him/her to engage in official business on behalf of the organization in the United States, you may annotate the visa to flag that future trips are expected.  For example: "UN OFFICER TRANSITING US; FUTURE OFFICIAL TRAVEL EXPECTED"

(10) (U) Permanent Observer Missions at the United Nations:

(a)  (U) Principal Applicants:  Annotate B-1 visas for principal applicants at Permanent Observer Missions at the United Nations to reflect their places of assignment.  See 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(7) below.  For example:

      OBSERVER MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS
(NAME OF ORGANIZATION), NEW YORK, NY

(b)  (U) Dependents of Permanent Observer Mission Personnel:  Annotate B-2 visas for dependents of Permanent Observer Mission personnel to reflect the principal applicant's name and place of assignment.  For example:

      PRINCIPAL APPLICANT:  JOHN DOE
UNITED NATIONS OBSERVER MISSION
(NAME OF ORGANIZATION), NEW YORK, NY

(11) (U) C-2 Visas: C-2 visa holders must travel directly to the United Nations headquarters district upon admission to the United States.  See 9 FAM 402.3-6(B) below.  Annotate visas  as follows:

      FOR TRANSIT TO AND FROM THE UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT

(12) (U) C-3 Visas:  Annotate C-3 visas as follows:

      VALID FOR IMMEDIATE AND CONTINUOUS TRANSIT ONLY

(13) (U) NATO-1 - NATO-6 Visas:  Annotate NATO-1 - NATO-6 visas as follows: 

(a)  (U) Annotate the visa of a principal applicant to reflect their place of employment or assignment. 

(b)  (U) Annotate the visa of an immediate family member or dependent of a NATO principal to reflect the principal's name and place of employment or assignment. 

(14) Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)  (U) Other Procedural Matters for A, G, and NATO Visas

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(1)  Unavailable

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(2)  Unavailable

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(3)  (U) Domestic Renewal of A, G, and NATO Visas

(CT:VISA-1944;   03-07-2024)

a. (U)  In accordance with 22 CFR 41.111, applicants and their immediate family members who are in the United States in A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, or NATO-1 through NATO-6 NIV status may apply to have their visa(s) renewed by CA/VO/DO/DL in the Department under the following circumstances:

(1)  (U) They are currently maintaining status and are properly classifiable in the A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, or NATO-1 through NATO-6 category; and

(2)  (U) They intend to reenter the United States in that status after a temporary absence abroad; and

(3)  (U) They were lawfully admitted in A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, or NATO-1 through NATO-6 NIV status or, after admission, had their classification changed to that status through application to USCIS.

b. (U) Applicants in the United States in A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 nonimmigrant status cannot renew their visas in the United States (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(5) below). For information on visa renewal requirements, the public may reference the information on travel.state.gov, or may reach out to CA/VO/DO/DL at diplomaticvisas@state.gov or by telephone at (202) 485-7681, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).

c.  (U) Applicants who wish to have their visas renewed may deliver their passports with required documents to the Diplomatic Reception Desk in SA-17 (open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 10:00 am to 11:00 am), 600 19th Street, N.W., Washington D.C., or by mail to CA/VO/DO/DL, SA-17, Floor 11, 600 19th Street, N.W., Washington, DC, 20522-1711.  The envelope should be clearly marked to indicate “Visa Reissuance.”  For information on public hours for the Diplomatic Reception Desk, contact CA/VO/DO/DL at diplomaticvisas@state.gov or by telephone at (202) 485-7681, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).

d. (U) G nonimmigrants (except G-5) who are part of the United Nations (UN) community and seek to have a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa renewed may be processed through the U.S. Mission to the United Nations (USUN) in New York.  For information on USUN visa renewal, contact usunvisas@state.gov.

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(4)  (U) Change of Status to A or G in the United States 

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) An applicant in the United States in a nonimmigrant status other than A or G who accepts employment with a foreign mission or an international organization (IO), or who is in the United States in A or G status and changes employment from one to another such that they require a different visa classification, must first obtain a change of status to the correct A or G nonimmigrant status before commencing their employment with that foreign mission or IO.  Applicants requesting a change of status to A or G nonimmigrant status should submit Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request -- A, G or NATO Dependent Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment to/from A, G or NATO Status, to the Office of Foreign Missions (OFM) (for most applicants) or to USUN (for changes into G nonimmigrant status at the United Nations).  Upon receipt of a favorably endorsed Form I-566 from OFM, the diplomatic mission or IO should then submit a completed change of status application package to CA/VO/DO/DL, who will coordinate with USCIS.  Foreign missions and IOs may contact CA/VO/DO/DL at (202) 485-7681, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), between the hours of 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), for information on required documentation.  Information on the process can also be found online at travel.state.gov.  USUN will coordinate all steps of the process for individuals seeking to change into G nonimmigrant status to serve in the UN community.

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(5)  (U) A-3 and G-5 Renewals in the United States

(CT:VISA-1944;   03-07-2024)

a. (U) CA/VO/DO/DL and USUN do not adjudicate A-3 or G-5 visa applications in the United States.  Applicants must apply for an A-3 or G-5 visa at a U.S. consular office abroad.

b. (U) A-3 and G-5 visa holders whose visas have expired, but who remain in status and continue to work for the same employer for which their A-3 or G-5 visa was issued, do not need to apply for new visas while they remain in the United States.  It is important to note, however, that CBP admits A-3 and G-5 visa holders for a defined period of stay. 

c.  Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(6)  (U) Departure from United States May Be Required for Issuance of A or G Visa

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

a. (U) Some applicants who entered the United States in a nonimmigrant status other than A, G, or NATO status may not be permitted to seek a change of status in the United States and may have to depart the United States and apply for the appropriate A or G visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad before reentering the United States and commencing employment at a foreign mission or international organization.  For example, DHS will not change the status of an applicant who enters the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).  If this is the case, the foreign mission or international organization where the applicant is to be employed should contact the NIV section of the U.S consular office where the applicant will apply for the visa to make the necessary arrangements for application for an A or G visa.

b. (U) A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visa applicants who have overstayed their previous nonimmigrant status in the United States are not subject to INA 222(g) and may apply for a visa at a consular section other than in their home country. 

c.  Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-4(I)(7)  (U) Issuing Visa to Applicants Entitled to Documentary Waiver 

(CT:VISA-853;   06-11-2019)

(U) See 9 FAM 201.1-2.

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)  (U) Immediate Family of Foreign Government Officials or Representatives, International Organization Officers and Employees, and Certain NATO Personnel/NATO Member Country Representatives

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(1)  (U) Immediate Family Members Also Classifiable A or G 

(CT:VISA-1944;   03-07-2024)

a. (U) A Visa Classification Trumps Other NIV: In accordance with 22 CFR 41.22(b), an applicant who is entitled to classification under INA 101(a)(15)(A) must be issued an A visa, even if eligible for another nonimmigrant classification and must enter the United States in that status.  Therefore, immediate family members of the principal applicant must also receive A visas, if eligible, unless the family member is independently classifiable as a principal applicant under INA 101(a)(15)(G) (e.g., tandem couples). 

b. (U) G Visa Classification Trumps Other NIV Classes, Except A: In accordance with 22 CFR 41.24(b)(4), an applicant who is not entitled to an A visa, but who is entitled to classification under INA 101(a)(15)(G) must be issued a G visa, even if eligible for another nonimmigrant classification and must enter the United States in that status.  Therefore, immediate family members of the principal applicant must also receive G visas, if eligible.  If an immediate family member enters the United States in G nonimmigrant status and then obtains employment in the United States which would normally fall under A classification, such immediate family member may continue to be classifiable G and is not required to seek a change of status in the United States to A” nonimmigrant status or apply for a new A visa abroad.

c.  (U) NATO Immediate Family Members/Dependents:  Some NATO categories include "immediate family" while others include "dependents".  The term "dependents" for NATO visa purposes is defined in the NATO SOFA and Paris Protocol agreements (see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E) below).

(1) (U) The following NATO visa classes include "immediate family" and therefore eligible immediate family members within these classifications should also receive the same NATO visa classification as the principal NATO visa holder/applicant:  

(a)  (U) NATO-1;

(b)  (U) NATO-2 (Limited to the following principals: Other Representative of a member state to NATO (including any of its Subsidiary Bodies) including Representatives, Advisers, and Technical Experts of Delegations);

(c)  (U) NATO-3;

(d)  (U) NATO-4; and

(e)  (U) NATO-7.

(2) (U) The following NATO visa classes include "dependents" and therefore, the below guidance related to "immediate family" does not apply: 

(a) (U) NATO-2 (Limited to the following principals: Members of a Force Entering in Accordance with the Provisions of the NATO Status of Forces Agreement or in Accordance with the provisions of the “Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters”);

(b)  (U) NATO-5; and

(c)  (U) NATO-6.

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(2)  (U) Category 1: Spouse

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) The term “immediate family” includes the spouse of the principal applicant, who is not a member of some other household and who will reside regularly in the household of the principal applicant.  This includes any spouse in a qualifying marital relationship as defined in 9 FAM 102.8-1. If you have questions relating to whether there is a valid marriage, send an AO request to L/CA.

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(3)  (U) Category 2: Unmarried Sons and Daughters

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) The term “immediate family” includes unmarried legal sons and daughters of the principal applicant, who are not members of some other household and who will reside regularly in the household of the principal applicant, if such unmarried sons and daughters are:

(1)  (U) Under the age of 21; or

(2)  (U) Under the age of 23 and in full-time attendance as students at post-secondary educational institutions.

b. (U) Such legal sons and daughters need not previously have qualified as a “child” as defined in INA 101(b)(1).  For example: children who are subject to a full and final adoption by the principal applicant are immediate family members and do not need to meet the two-year requirement of INA 101(b)(1)(E), the orphan definition of INA 101(b)(1)(F) or INA 101(b)(1)(G). 

c.  (U) If a son or daughter does not qualify under this section, they may still qualify as immediate family under "Other Members of Household" below.

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(4)  (U) Category 3: Other Members of the Principal Applicant’s Household

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) The term "immediate family" may also include any other applicant who:

(1)  (U) will reside regularly in the household of the principal applicant;

(2)  (U) is not a member of some other household; and

(3)  (U) is recognized as an immediate family member of the principal applicant by the sending government or designated International Organization (IO) as demonstrated by eligibility for rights and benefits, such as the issuance of a diplomatic or official passport or other similar documentation, or travel or other allowances.  Inclusion in a diplomatic note is not sufficient to satisfy this requirement.  There must be some further evidence showing that the sending government or designated IO recognizes the applicant as an immediate family member.  Some examples may typically include participation in a government or international organization-sponsored healthcare plan, a housing benefit, evacuation benefit.  If you have questions about whether a member of household meets the criteria, you can email diplomaticvisas@state.gov.

b. (U) Applicants who may qualify as immediate family under this category are limited to applicant relatives related by blood, marriage, or adoption to the principal applicant or their spouse (see category 1 above); same-sex domestic partners in limited circumstances (see paragraph c below); and applicant relatives  related by blood, marriage, or adoption to the qualifying same-sex domestic partner.  The term "domestic partner" under this section means a same-sex domestic partner.

c.  (U) Same-Sex Domestic Partners:  In limited cases, a same-sex domestic partner (other than a same-sex spouse) and a relative of the same-sex domestic partner (who is related to the same-sex domestic partner by blood, marriage, or adoption) may qualify as immediate family subject to the following requirements: 

(1) (U) the applicant is a same sex-domestic partner accompanying or following-to-join a principal A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, or TECRO E-1 visa holder whose government does not legally recognize a same-sex marriage; and

(2)  (U) the foreign government accepts the accreditation of U.S. same sex-spouses.

(3)  (U) Before issuing an A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, or TECRO E-1 visa to a same-sex domestic partner or relative of a same-sex domestic partner submit an AO request (either via email or through NIV). 

d. (U) This limited exception for same-sex domestic partners is not extended to the same-sex domestic partners of international organization personnel (G-4 principals) or same-sex domestic partners of personal or domestic employees holding A-3, C-3, G-5 and NATO-7 visas.

e. (U) Department Authorization:  An individual is authorized by the Department as a member of the "immediate family" in accordance with 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3)(iii)(D) in all cases in which you have made a favorable determination on the application.

f.  (U) Notification to the Department:  You do not need to seek Departmental authorization (except for same-sex domestic partners as described in paragraphs b through d) to issue a visa when you determine that a close relative qualifies as immediate family of the principal applicant.  You may deny such derivative status, if the applicant does not meet the criteria specified in this section without referring the case to the Department.  If significant foreign policy issues or public interest exist, you may refer the case to the Department L/CA for an AO.  In any request for an AO for an individual case involving significant foreign policy issues or public interest, address how the policy issues or public interest relate to the visa application.

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(5)  (U) Applicants Who Will Reside Regularly in Household of Principal Applicant

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) An applicant who resides regularly in the household of the principal applicant but is absent from the household for a large part of the year while attending a boarding school or college is still regularly residing in the household of the principal applicant, regardless of the location of the school or college. 

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(6)  (U) Applicants Who Are Members of Some Other Household

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant who has been a member of a household other than the household of the principal applicant would not normally qualify as "immediate family" as that term is defined in 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3), regardless of other circumstances.  For example, a nephew of college age who has resided in the household of the principal applicant's sibling would not qualify as immediate family of the principal applicant simply to join the principal applicant's household with the intention of attending college in the United States.  F-1 classification under sponsorship of the principal applicant might be appropriate in such a situation.

b. (U) However, the fact that an applicant has been, even recently,  a member of some other household does not preclude a finding that, during the visa application, the applicant is a member of the household of the principal applicant.  For example, a recently widowed, divorced, or aging parent may have closed a former household with the intention of becoming part of the principal applicant's household.  This could also occur because, due to advanced age or infirmity, the parent has experienced significant difficulty in maintaining their own household.  The test in adjudicating these cases is whether the applicant, for reasons of age, health, or change in circumstances, has a compelling reason to join the household of the principal applicant rather than maintain or reestablish an independent household. 

c.  (U) If you are satisfied that the applicant is currently a member of the principal applicant's household, you do not need to submit an AO to the Department but should document your findings in the case record. 

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(7)  (U) Immediate Family of Foreign Official Who Has Requested Status of Lawful Permanent Resident

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant who is a member of the immediate family of a principal applicant classifiable as A-2, or G-1 through G-4 (other than diplomatic agents), may receive that classification even when the principal has requested permission to obtain or retain the status of permanent resident under INA 247(b).  The principal must have filed Form I-508 with USCIS pertaining to the waiver of their rights, privileges, exemptions, and immunities if their permanent resident status is obtained or retained.

b. (U) An LPR cannot serve as a diplomatic agent or as a consular officer in the United States.  Contact L/CA for any questions regarding immediate family members of an LPR seeking an A-1 or G visa (other than a G-4 visa). 

9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(8)  (U) Individuals Who Do Not Qualify as Immediate Family

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U)  Individuals who do not qualify as immediate family, as described above, may otherwise potentially qualify for a B-2 visa (see 9 FAM 402.2-4(B)(5)) or some other NIV based on their purpose of travel. 

9 FAM 402.3-5  (U) Foreign Government Officials – A Visas

9 FAM 402.3-5(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

9 FAM 402.3-5(A)(1)  (U) Immigration and Nationality Act

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) INA 101(a)(15)(A) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(A).

9 FAM 402.3-5(A)(2)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 CFR 41.21; 22 CFR 41.22.

9 FAM 402.3-5(B)  (U) General Information on A Visa Classification

9 FAM 402.3-5(B)(1)  (U) Importance of A Visas

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) A-1 and A-2 visas are issued to applicants coming to the United States to perform diplomatic and official business of a governmental nature.  Errors made in the issuance or refusal of an A visa could cause embarrassment for the U.S. Government and may have serious consequences.  Ensure that A visa applications are adjudicated accurately and promptly.  If you have any questions, contact CA/VO/DO/DL.

9 FAM 402.3-5(B)(2)  (U) A Visa Classification vs. Diplomatic Type Visas

(CT:VISA-1944;   03-07-2024)

a. (U) As described in 9 FAM 402.3-10(B) below, A visa classification should not be confused with the issuance of “diplomatic” type visas; visa classification is distinct from visa type (regular, official, or diplomatic).  Heads of state or heads of government (and their immediate family members) are always accorded A-1 visa classification regardless of their purpose of travel.  Otherwise, visa classification is determined by the purpose of travel and the intended official duties, and not by the official’s title, rank, or type of passport (diplomatic, official, or regular) they are carrying.  However, the type of passport is relevant for issuance of a diplomatic type visa as 22 CFR 41.26 requires the applicant possess a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport to qualify for a diplomatic type visa (regardless of visa classification).  The definition of “equivalent of a diplomatic passport” is defined at 22 CFR 41.26(a)(3) as a passport issued by a competent authority that does not issue diplomatic passports (e.g., an entity other than a foreign government authorized to issue travel documents to indicate the holder’s status as an official, officer, or employee of the issuing entity) and as designated by the Secretary of State (22 CFR 41.26(a)(3)).  The United Nations Laissez-Passer (UNLP) and European Union Laissez-Passer (EULP) and Palestinian Authority VIP (PA VIP) passport have been designated as the “equivalent of a diplomatic passport” by the Secretary of State.  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(C) for more information.

b. (U) Foreign government officials coming to the United States on official business on behalf of their government, whether on permanent assignment or temporary duty (TDY) of less than 90 days, are classifiable as A-1 or A-2, as are their immediate family members.  Foreign government officials coming to perform non-governmental functions of a commercial or competitive nature do not qualify for A-1 or A-2 visas, but may fall into the B, E, or L categories, and may be issued diplomatic type visas in those categories if qualified.

c.  (U) National, Not Local Level:  A-1 and A-2 visa classifications only pertain to officials who are traveling to the United States on behalf of their national government, and the immediate family of such officials.  Local government officials who intend to come to the United States exclusively on behalf of their state, province, borough, or other local political entity would not qualify for an A-1 or A-2 visa.  A foreign government official who is assigned to a third country (or the immediate family of such foreign official) and who wishes to visit and/or vacation in the United States would not qualify for an A visa.  Based on the applicant’s purpose of travel to the United States (vacation or visit), they may be issued a diplomatic type or official type B-2 visa if qualified.

9 FAM 402.3-5(B)(3)  (U) Exemptions from Most Ineligibility Provisions for A-1 and A-2 Visa Classes

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) A-1 and A-2 visa applicants are subject to limited grounds of ineligibility.  Of the INA 212(a) ineligibilities, only INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), and INA 212(a)(3)(C) apply.  Thus, an applicant who demonstrates that they are qualified for an A-1 or A-2 visa may not be refused as an intending immigrant or on grounds of health, criminal activities, or prior visa violations.  If an applicant appears to be ineligible on grounds other than INA 212(a) (for example under a Presidential Proclamation), send an AO to L/CA.  Before issuing an A -1 or A-2 visa to an applicant who would otherwise be ineligible under INA 212(a)(2)(E) if such applicant were applying for a visa other than an A-1 or A-2 visa, submit an AO request to L/CA.  See 9 FAM 302.3-7(C). If you have concerns about an applicant who would be ineligible for another visa classification but is exempt from ineligibility because they are applying for an A-1 or A-2 visa, submit an AO request to L/CA.

b. Unavailable

c.  (U) In exempting foreign government officials from provisions of the INA relating to an applicant ineligible to receive visas, Congress acted on the assumption that to do otherwise might infringe upon the constitutional prerogative of the President to receive ambassadors and other public ministers (Article II, Section 3 of the Constitution).  The legislative history underlying the distinctions made in the INA between A-1 and A-2 classes of foreign government officials offers some assistance in determining legislative intent.  Committee Report No. 1365, which accompanied House Report No. 5678, 82nd Congress contains the following paragraph on page 34.

Ambassadors, public ministers, and career diplomatic and consular officers who have been accredited by foreign governments recognized de jure by the United States and accepted by the President or the Secretary of State, and members of their immediate families, are exempted from all provisions relating to the exclusion and deportation of aliens generally, except those provisions relating to reasonable requirements of passport and visas as means of identification and documentation.  In view of constitutional limitations, such aliens may be excluded on grounds of public safety only under such regulations as may be deemed necessary by the President.

d. Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)  (U) Applicants Entitled to A-1 Classification

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) The following applicants are entitled to A-1 nonimmigrant classification under INA 101(a)(15)(A)(i). 

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(1)  (U) Applicant Head of State or Government

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) An applicant holding the position of head of state or head of government in a foreign government recognized de jure by the United States is classifiable as A-1 regardless of purpose of travel.  The immediate family members of such head of state or head of government are also classifiable as A-1 regardless of purpose of travel.  Do not issue a visa other than an A-1 to the current head of state or head of government (and their qualifying immediate family members). 

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(2)  (U) Applicant Accredited by a Foreign Government as an Officer at a Diplomatic or Consular Post

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant duly accredited by a foreign government recognized de jure by the United States as an officer of a permanent diplomatic mission or consular post established in the United States with the consent of the Department, who seeks to enter the United States solely to perform duties appropriately performed by such an officer is classifiable A-1.  (Officers of diplomatic missions usually have the title of “Ambassador,” “Minister,” “Counselor,” “Secretary,” or “Attaché” such as military, commercial, financial, agriculture, or scientific; and those of consular posts, “Consul General,” "Deputy Consul General," “Consul,” "Deputy Consul," or “Vice Consul.”)  See 9 FAM 402.3-5(F), Honorary Consul, below.

b. (U) Such applicant should be at least 20 years old when entering the United States, is expected to perform services for the foreign government full-time (at least 35 hours per week) and reside in the metropolitan area of the diplomatic mission or consular post where the individual will be serving.

c.  (U) Diplomatic Exchange Programs: Applicants participating in a qualifying diplomatic exchange program who will be assigned to their foreign government’s embassy or to an EU institution in the United States as a diplomatic agent described in paragraph a above and who, as part of their assignment, will temporarily perform duties at the Department that are typically performed by a diplomatic agent, are also classifiable A-1.  Such applicants should provide a qualifying diplomatic note that indicates they will be assigned to the foreign government’s embassy or EU institution in the United States and a letter from the Department bureau or office indicating that the applicant will perform duties typically performed by diplomatic agents during their temporary assignment at the Department.  Approved programs covered by this note include the Transatlantic Diplomatic Fellows (TDF) program, with participants from EU and NATO countries, the EU, and Switzerland; the East Asia Pacific MFA Exchange Program, with participants from Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand; and the Mexico City Exchange Program.  Participants of other programs must not be issued an A-1 visa without an AO from L/CA.  All other foreign government officials seconded to a U.S. government agency are classifiable A-2 (see 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(3) below).

d. (U) De jure recognition is not synonymous with diplomatic relations, and de jure recognition may continue even though diplomatic relations have been severed.  Consequently, an A-1 visa may be issued to an applicant who seeks to enter the United States to perform official duties for a government which has severed diplomatic relations with the United States, if:

(1)  (U) The United States has recognized that government de jure before severance of diplomatic relations;

(2)  (U) There is a continuing status of de jure recognition;

(3)  (U) There is a reciprocal exchange of representatives between the United States and that government.  An A-1 classification for such an applicant is warranted even if, owing to the absence of diplomatic relations, the individual will function under the aegis of the embassy of a third country protecting power; and

(4)  (U) You have consulted with L/CA regarding the application.

e. (U) Per Department policy, as of August 2, 2021, except for Chiefs of Mission, Charges D'Affaires, and Deputy Chiefs of Missions, all individuals assigned to a bilateral foreign mission (including assignment as a representative of the sending country to a designated international organization) as a diplomatic agent, consular officer, or consular employee are expected to hold their position for no more than five years total (not per assignment).  Additionally, individuals are not eligible for bilateral accreditation if previously assigned to a foreign mission (which includes international organizations) in the United States during the 36 months before the individual’s application for a diplomatic visa.  In other words, there should be a three-year break outside the United States between such assignments.

f.  (U) Such individuals may no longer be eligible for acceptance and accreditation for any mission in the United States, whether they seek to work for the same government or another government.

g. (U) For non-renewal applications, if there is reason to believe the individual has already worked in the United States in a position(s) for a total of five or more years and has not remained outside of the United States for a 36-month period before the application, contact OFM for guidance at OFM-policy@state.gov.

h. (U) For renewal applications, you must check The Office of Foreign Missions Information System (TOMIS) to confirm that the applicant is listed as an “active” “A1” and how long they have been registered as such. TOMIS is available in the Consular Consolidated Database (CCD) under the “Other Agencies/Bureaus” menu.  The following time-bound exceptions currently apply to actively registered A1s: 

(1)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who are not Chiefs of Mission, Charges d'Affaires, or Deputy Chiefs of Mission, and who have been in their current assignment in excess of 48 months (four years) as of August 2, 2021, will be permitted to maintain their current status for an additional 24 months from August 2, 2021.

(2)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who are not Chiefs of Mission, Charges d'Affaires, or Deputy Chiefs of Mission, and who have been in their current assignment for less than 48 months (four years) but more than 36 months (three years) as of August 2, 2021, will be expected to complete their assignment no later than 72 months (six years) from the individual’s accreditation date.

(3)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who are not Chiefs of Mission, Charges d'Affaires, or Deputy Chiefs of Mission, and who have been in their current assignment for less than 36 months (three years) as of August 2, 2021, will be expected to complete their assignment no later than 60 months from the individual’s accreditation date.

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(3)  (U) Certain Officials of Foreign Governments Traveling Temporarily for Official Business

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) An applicant seeking to enter the United States to perform official duties for a government recognized de jure by the United States and who holds any of the following positions in that government is classifiable A-1:

(1)  (U) A position corresponding to that of a member of the U.S. Cabinet;

(2)  (U) The presiding officer of a national legislative body; or

(3)  (U) A member of the highest judicial tribunal.

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(4)  (U) Immediate Family of Applicant Classifiable A-1

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) See 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3) and 9 FAM 402.3-4(J) above, Immediate Family of Foreign Government and International Organization Officials and Employees.  Qualifying immediate family members of an applicant classifiable A-1 are also classifiable A-1. 

9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(5)  (U) Career Courier

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) See 22 CFR 41.22(h)(1).

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)  (U) Applicants Entitled to A-2 Classification

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) The following applicants are entitled to A-2 nonimmigrant classification under INA 101(a)(15)(A)(ii). (Most official TDY travel (less than 90 days) is classifiable A-2, not A-1.)

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(1)  (U) Applicant Accredited by a Foreign Government as an Employee at a Diplomatic or Consular Post

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant duly accredited by a foreign government recognized de jure by the United States who seeks to enter the United States solely to serve as an employee of a permanent diplomatic mission or consular post established in the United States by that government, who is not within any of the categories entitled to A-1 classification, and whose duties are those normally performed by employees of permanent diplomatic missions or consular posts established in the United States, is classifiable A-2.  Accordingly, A-2 visas are usually appropriate for foreign government officials or employees not holding a diplomatic rank or a consular officer title, and instead working essentially full-time as administrative and technical staff and service staff at embassies, as consular employees and service staff at consulates, or as qualifying miscellaneous foreign government office (MFGO) personnel.  MFGOs must be registered with the Office of Foreign Missions (OFM); contact CA/VO/DO/DL or L/CA if you have any questions about an individual.  Such applicant should be at least 20 years old when entering the United States, is expected to perform services for the foreign government on a full-time basis (at least 35 hours per week) and reside in the metropolitan area of the mission where the individual will be serving.

(1)  (U) Per Department policy, as of August 2, 2021, all individuals assigned to a bilateral foreign mission (including assignment as a representative of the sending country to a designated international organization) as administrative and technical staff or service staff are expected to hold their position for no more than five years total, not per assignment.  Additionally, individuals are not eligible for bilateral accreditation if previously assigned to a foreign mission (which includes international organizations) in the United States during the 36 months before the individual’s application for a diplomatic visa.  In other words, there should be a three-year break outside the United States between such assignments.

(2)  (U) Such individuals may no longer be eligible for acceptance and accreditation for any mission in the United States after August 2, 2021, whether they seek to work for the same government or another government.  For non-renewal applications, if there is reason to believe the individual has already worked in the United States in a position(s) for a total of five or more years and has not remained outside of the United States for a 36-month period before the application, contact OFM for guidance at OFM-policy@state.gov.

(3)  (U) For renewal applications, check TOMIS to confirm that the applicant is listed as an “active” “A2” and how long they have been registered as such. TOMIS is available in the CCD under the “Other Agencies/Bureaus” menu.  The following time-bound exceptions apply to currently registered A2s:

(a)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who have been in their current assignment in excess of 48 months (four years) as of August 2, 2021, will be permitted to maintain their current status for an additional 24 months from August 2, 2021.

(b)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who have been in their current assignment for less than 48 months (four years) but more than 36 months (three years) as of August 2, 2021, will be expected to complete their assignment no later than 72 months (six years) from the individual’s accreditation date.

(c)  (U) Current bilaterally accredited individuals in the United States who have been in their current assignment for less than 36 months (three years) as of August 2, 2021, will be expected to complete their assignment no later than 60 months from the individual’s accreditation date.

b. (U) Locally Engaged Staff – Permanently Resident in the United States for Purposes of the Vienna Conventions: 

(1) (U) A-2 visas are occasionally appropriate for applicant staff members and employees who were hired by a permanent diplomatic mission or consular post in the United States but are not career members of the sending state’s foreign service (or equivalent).  Often these applicants have not been assigned or appointed by the sending state’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and may not be extended the same benefits as other government employees, including, for example, issuance of a diplomatic or official passport and reimbursement for the cost of travel expenses to and from the United States.  These applicants may also not have a specified length of tour, consistent with the sending state’s foreign service transfer policy.  These individuals are employees and staff members of the mission and are working in a capacity that would require A-2 NIV status.  These individuals may be third country nationals, and a consular interview is recommended in most cases. Per Department policy, as of August 23, 2016, all locally engaged staff employed by a foreign embassy or consular post and sponsored by the post for an A2 NIV are expected to hold their position for no more than five years total, not per assignment.  After serving a total of five years, these individuals may no longer qualify as locally engaged staff members for any mission in the United States, whether they seek to work for the same government or another government.  Individuals who have held an A-2 position as a locally engaged staff member before August 23, 2016, may continue to serve as a locally engaged staff member until August 22, 2021. 

(2)  Unavailable

c.  (U) A-2 versus A-3:  Consider the differences between A-2 service staff and A-3 domestic workers and ask for detailed descriptions of the duties to be performed and/or request an interview to determine proper visa classification.  (These standards also apply to G-1 service staff and G-5 domestic workers).  These applicants may be either service staff (A-2), personal attendants (A-3), or domestic workers (A-3), depending on the facts of their employment and duties.  An applicant may qualify for an A-2 visa as service staff they are engaged in certain duties owed to the sending government in furtherance of the official functions of the mission pertaining to the maintenance of the residence and representational duties performed at the residence of the head of a diplomatic mission or the principal officer of a consular post (or a permanent representative to the UN for G-1 visa applicants).  In contrast, “attendants” are paid from the funds of the sending government (or IO for some G-5 visa applicants) and are accompanying or following-to-join a principal to whom a duty of service is owed in their personal capacity; they are therefore classifiable as A-3.  Personal or domestic employees employed by the principal in a domestic or personal capacity – such as to cook, clean, or take care of children – in the private residence of a mission member are classifiable as A-3.  Domestic workers do not qualify for A-2 visas even if the sending government pays them.  Contact L/CA or CA/VO/DO/DL if you have any questions or concerns about an applicant’s eligibility for an A-2 (or G-1) visa as service staff.

d. (U) Interns:  Interns applying for a visa to work at an embassy, consulate, or miscellaneous foreign government office (MFGO) may qualify for an A-2 visa if the intern's visa application is accompanied by a diplomatic note that contains either (1) an express statement that the mission considers the applicant its employee during the internship, or (2) an acknowledgement that the mission will exercise ultimate authority over the continuation of the intern's assignment and the control and direction of the official duties to be performed for the duration of the intern's U.S. assignment.  The duration of the internship and status as paid/unpaid are not relevant for classifying an intern as an A-2.  

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(2)  (U) Applicant Seeking to Perform Official Duties for a Foreign Government (TDY Travel)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant holding an official position with a foreign government recognized de jure by the United States who seeks to enter the United States pursuant to orders or instructions from such government, solely to perform duties or services for that government (including participation in an international meeting or conference, other than one convened by or under the auspices of a designated international organization, held in the United States) which, in the view of the Department, are official in nature, are classifiable A-2.  See 9 FAM 402.3-7(B) for classification of applicants attending meetings or conferences convened by or under the auspices of a designated international organization.

b. (U) ATA Training:  In accordance with the above provisions, foreign government officials and law enforcement personnel coming to the United States under sponsorship of the foreign government for training DS/ATA shall be accorded A-2 visas.  As the training program is less than 90 days, the visa should include the required “TDY” designation per 9 FAM 402.3-4(H) paragraph 5.  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(H) paragraph 6 above for guidance on annotating the ”ATA” visas.

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(3)  (U) 90-Day Rule Limitations

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

a. (U) Under the "90-day-rule," foreign government officials coming to the United States for 90 days or more should only be issued A-2 visas if they are coming to work at an embassy, consulate, or miscellaneous foreign government office (MFGO) in the United States.

b. (U) There are limited exceptions to this rule. 

(1) (U) One exception to the rule is for personnel of foreign armed forces from non-NATO member countries traveling for education or training in accordance with 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(4) below. 

(2) (U) A second exception is for foreign government officials traveling to the United States pursuant to an executed Technical Assistance Agreement (TAA) or Manufacturing Licensing Agreement (MLA) relating to direct commercial sales (DCS) or a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) for a foreign military sale (FMS) for U.S. defense articles, services, or training at DoD facilities and/or the facility(ies) of the provider of such articles, services, or training.  This exception does not apply to foreign armed service personnel and civilians traveling from a NATO member country as such travel is more appropriately classifiable NATO if a visa is required and/or issued.  See 9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(1) and 9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(2) below.  

(3) (U) You may also issue an A-2 visa to a foreign government official who otherwise qualifies and is coming to work at a U.S. Government agency on behalf of a foreign government for longer than 90 days if the foreign government and the U.S. Government agency request A-2 visa issuance.  The U.S. Government agency letter must provide a point of contact and should be scanned into the NIV application record. 

c. (U) If you determine there is a U.S. Government interest in A-2 visa issuance in any other case outside the scope of the 90-day-rule, submit a request for an AO to L/CA, which will consult with the Office of the Legal Adviser and the Office of Foreign Missions on the case.

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(4)  (U) Personnel of Foreign Armed Services from Non-NATO Member Countries

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Personnel of foreign armed services from other than NATO countries, traveling to the United States in connection with their military status for education or training at any of the U.S. military schools or on a U.S. military installation, are treated as foreign government officials for visa classification purposes and are therefore classifiable as A-2.

b. (U) Also treated as foreign government officials are personnel of foreign armed services from other than NATO countries, traveling to the United States to receive military training for up to 90 days on TDY status at a location other than a U.S. military school or a U.S. military installation, if the training is either U.S. Government-provided or sponsored, or the training has been licensed by the Office of Defense Trade Control Licensing (PM/DTCL), where required.  To verify PM/DTCL licensing of training, submit a request for an AO via e-mail or through the NIV system.  You should include detailed information about the training in the AO, including where the training is being held, the company holding the training (and a point of contact at the company if possible), the military equipment and any parts or components of that equipment.

c.  Unavailable

d. Unavailable

e. Unavailable

(1)  Unavailable

(2)  Unavailable

(3)  Unavailable

(4)  Unavailable

(5)  Unavailable

f.  Unavailable

(1)  Unavailable

(2)  Unavailable

(3)  Unavailable   

g. Unavailable

h. Unavailable

i.  Unavailable

j.  Unavailable

k. Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(5)  (U) Students at the Inter-American Defense College (IADC)

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) Students at the Inter-American Defense College (IADC) are classifiable as A-2; this includes military and civilians attending the IADC as students.  All other staff members, advisors, and other representatives traveling to the IADC are classifiable either G-1 or G-4, depending on their roles (see 9 FAM 402.3-7(E)(3) below).

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(6)  (U) Immediate Family of Applicant Classifiable A-2

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) See 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3) and 9 FAM 402.3-4(J) above, Immediate Family of Foreign Government and International Organization Officials and Employees. Qualifying immediate family members of an applicant classifiable as A-2 are also classifiable as A-2. 

9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(7)  (U) Official Acting as Courier

(CT:VISA-853;   06-11-2019)

(U) See 22 CFR 41.22(h)(2). 

9 FAM 402.3-5(E)  (U) Qualifying for A-1 or A-2 Classification: Purpose of Travel and Official Duties in the United States Determines Classification

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Qualification for A-1 or A-2 classification is determined by the purpose for which the applicant seeks to enter the United States and the nature of the official duties the applicant will perform while there.  Therefore, the fact that an applicant is an official or employee of a foreign government or is the holder of a diplomatic, official, or service passport does not in itself, except for a head of state or head of government (and their immediate family) as provided in 9 FAM 402.3-5(C)(1) above, qualify the applicant for an A-1 or A-2 visa.

b. (U) The fact that there may be government interest or control in an organization is not in itself controlling on the matter of A-2 entitlement.  There must be some further showing that the duties or services to be performed by the applicant are themselves of an inherently governmental character or nature.  Where an organization is essentially engaged in commercial and/or competitive activities (e.g., banking, mining, or transportation), an official traveling on behalf of such organization would usually not be qualified for an A-2 visa.  Depending upon the purpose of travel to the United States, B-1, L-1, or E classification may be appropriate.  Review all applications for A-2 visas for officials of organizations which are not directly engaged in functions of a governmental nature as measured by U.S. standards.

c.  (U) If any difficulty is encountered in resolving a case, submit the case to L/CA for an AO.  The AO request should include a full report as to the nature, structure and purpose of the organization concerned, together with your analysis and comments.

9 FAM 402.3-5(F)  (U) Honorary Consuls

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) Honorary consuls are usually so designated because the performance of duties for the foreign government which appoints them is only incidental to the primary purposes of entry into, or presence in, the United States, typically for business, employment, study, or some other nongovernmental purpose.  Therefore, an honorary consul does not usually seek to enter solely to perform governmental official duties and is not normally classifiable A-1 or A-2.  However, the term “honorary” may be used in the consul’s title even though the consul is coming solely to perform official duties.  In such a case, you should request an AO from L/CA for the appropriate visa classification of the applicant.

9 FAM 402.3-5(G)  (U) Applicants Entitled to A-3 Classification

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) See 9 FAM 402.3-9 Personal or Domestic Employees of Officials – A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Visas.

9 FAM 402.3-5(H)  (U) Other Considerations for A Visas

9 FAM 402.3-5(H)(1)  (U) No A Visa for Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) You must not issue an A visa to an LPR.  An LPR cannot serve as a diplomatic agent or as a consular officer in the United States.  Accordingly, you must not issue an A-1 or G-1 visa for assignment as a diplomatic agent or consular officer to an individual who is an LPR unless such individual relinquishes their LPR status.  If an LPR with an urgent TDY official travel purpose on behalf of a foreign government that meets A-2 or G-2 entitlement and eligibility requirements needs to travel more quickly than obtaining a returning resident visa would permit, you may issue an A-2 or G-2 visa for TDY purposes, but should consider limiting and annotating the visa to reflect the nature of the LPR's travel, and to provide additional information to POE officials. You should advise the LPR that travel in an NIV status is at odds with LPR status and that if they intend to remain an LPR they may need to address that with DHS. 

b. (U) You should contact L/CA for any questions regarding immediate family members of an LPR seeking an A-1 visa.  An LPR can serve as administrative and technical staff/support staff as an LPR, and without an A-2 visa.  The immediate family members of these LPRs may be issued A-2 visas, if they are eligible to receive visas (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(7) above).   

9 FAM 402.3-5(H)(2)  (U) Advisory Opinions

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) Occasionally, you may receive instructions to request AOs for foreign government officials of certain countries for a variety of reasons unrelated to security concerns (e.g., unwillingness or inability to meet debts incurred by diplomatic missions in the United States).  The instructions may identify the office(s) in the Department that should be consulted before visa issuance.  Consular sections receiving “A” visa applications from "diplomats" who purport to represent former governments of countries which have experienced civil unrest or war should contact the Department (L/CA and the relevant country desk) for guidance on whether “A” status is still appropriate.

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)  (U) Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) or Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) Employees (TECRO E-1) and Representatives of Taiwan (B-1 or C-1)

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(1)  (U) TECRO Employees and Representatives of Taiwan May Not Receive A or G Visas

(CT:VISA-2047;   08-14-2024)

a. (U) Since January 1, 1979, the United States has recognized the government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the sole legal government of China and has maintained diplomatic relations with the PRC.  The United States does not recognize Taiwan as an independent, sovereign state or maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan.  Pursuant to the United States' one China policy, the Taiwan Relations Act, and Executive Order 13014, the people of the United States maintain economic, cultural, and other relations with the people of Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and its counterpart organization, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO).  TECRO also maintains Taipei Economic and Cultural Offices (TECOs) throughout the United States.  These subsidiary offices maintain U.S.-Taiwan relations on a subnational level.  All references to TECRO below should be understood to also include TECOs.

b. (U) Representatives of Taiwan including employees of TECRO may not receive "A" or "G" NIV.  Moreover, U.S. visas may never be placed in diplomatic or official passports issued by Taiwan.  Contact the American Institute in Taiwan's Taipei (AIT/T) Consular Section for more information.

c.  (U) As discussed below, individuals assigned to TECRO as “designated employees” of TECRO, and their qualifying immediate family members are classifiable as E-1.  See 9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(2) through 9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(6) below.  In addition, individuals employed by or seconded as employees of TECRO for a temporary travel purpose  in support of TECRO’s trade-related operations in the United States for training, liaising, or foreign military sales, are classifiable as E-1.  In rare circumstances, you may encounter an applicant employed by or seconded to TECRO whose temporary travel purpose appears to be related to TECRO’s trade function but is not for training, liaising, or foreign military sales.  For these applicants, contact your post’s VO/F analyst, with a copy to VO/DO/DL at diplomaticvisas@state.gov and L/CA at legal-ca-diplomaticvisas@state.gov, including detailed information on the individual’s planned trade related activities in the United States for a determination of whether the travel purpose qualifies as a core TECRO trade function and the applicant meets the requirements to be considered an essential employee with special qualifications that make the services to be rendered essential to TECRO’s economic and trade operations.

d. (U) Except as provided in paragraph (c), representatives of Taiwan traveling to the United States on short-term business on behalf of Taiwan authorities are classifiable as B-1/B-2.  Representatives of Taiwan transiting the United States are classifiable as B-1/B-2 or C-1.  See 9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(7).

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(2)  (U) Individuals Assigned to Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States or other TECRO Employees With Temporary Travel Essential to TECRO’s Trade Related Operations in the United States

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) E-1 Visa Classification:  Individuals assigned to TECRO as “designated employees” and their immediate family members are issued E-1 visas, if eligible, and are admitted to the United States in E-1 nonimmigrant status for duration of status.  In addition, individuals designated or seconded as employees of TECRO for a temporary travel purpose in support of TECRO’s trade-related operations in the United States, including for training, liaising, or foreign military sales, are classifiable as E-1.  For non-defense-related trade travel, contact your posts VO/F analyst, with a copy to VOVO/DO/DL at diplomaticvisas@state.gov and L/CA at legal-ca-diplomaticvisas@state.gov in accordance with guidance at 9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(1) paragraph c above.

b. (U) No Fee:  There are no MRV fees or reciprocity fees for TECRO E-1 applicants.

c.  (U) Personal Appearance Waived:  You may waive the interview of an E-1 TECRO visa applicant.  See 9 FAM 403.5-4(A)(1).

d. (U) Fingerprinting Waived:  Individuals assigned to TECRO and their qualifying immediate family members, including individuals designated or seconded as employees of TECRO for a temporary travel purpose, should have fingerprinting waived per 9 FAM 303.7-4(B)(1).

e. (U) Place of Visa Application:  Individuals assigned to TECRO must apply at either the consular section having jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence or at a consular section having jurisdiction over the area in which the applicant is physically present.  Visa sections must contact the AIT Taipei Consular Section upon the receipt of a TECRO E-1 application.

f.  (U) Annotation: 

(1)  (U) Annotate the E-1 visa of an individual assigned to TECRO as a designated employee or qualifying immediate family member as follows:

[PRINCIPAL APPLICANT: JOHN DOE]

EMPLOYEE OF TECRO ACCORDED COURTESIES

US-VISIT EXEMPT PER 8CFR235.1(F)(1)(IV)(B)

DURATION OF STATUS AUTHORIZED PER TRA 4(A)

(2)  (U) Annotate the E-1 visas of a Taiwan military representative who is employed by or seconded to TECRO, or qualifying immediate family member as follows:

[PRINCIPAL APPLICANT: JOHN DOE]

TECRO SPECIALIZED TRAVEL PURPOSEUS-VISIT EXEMPT PER 8CFR235.1(F)(1)(IV)(B)

DURATION OF STATUS AUTHORIZED PER TRA 4(A)

g. (U) All TECRO E-1 applications including those for temporary travel in support of TECRO trade operations, must be accompanied by a TECRO note with information regarding their intended travel purpose.  If the travel purpose is for temporary travel the note must state that the traveler is an employee of or seconded to TECRO for the duration of the travel and must describe the trade related TECRO operations that the temporary travel supports. Taiwan typically issues "G-series" passports to individuals assigned to TECRO and their immediate family members.  If you receive a TECRO E-1 application from an individual for assignment to TECRO who does not possess a G-series passport, contact the AIT Taipei Consular Section and CA/VO/DO/DL for guidance on where to place the foil.   Individuals employed by or seconded as employees of TECRO for a temporary travel purpose may present a “G-series” passport or a regular passport.  See the reciprocity schedule for additional information regarding Taiwan passports.  As a "G-series" passport or a personal passport is not a diplomatic or official passport, you may place a TECRO E-1 visa in it. 

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(3)  (U) TECRO Immediate Family Members Entitled to E-1 Nonimmigrant Visa Classification

(CT:VISA-2047;   08-14-2024)

a. (U) Under INA 101(a)(15)(E) and INA 101(b)(1) children of treaty traders and investors who reach the age of 21 become ineligible for "E" nonimmigrant classification.  However, section 4(A) of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) preserves for immediate family members, including certain dependent sons and daughters of TECRO representatives over the age of 21, the entitlements "applied with respect to Taiwan before January 01, 1979," the date of Taiwan's derecognition by the United States.

b. (U) Accordingly, unmarried dependent sons and daughters of TECRO  representatives are classifiable E-1 and may be issued E-1 visas after the age of 21, if they continue to meet the definition of "immediate family" as defined in 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3).  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(3) and (4).

c. (U) Individuals who qualify as "immediate family" of the principal TECRO E-1 visa holder in the "Other Members of the Principal Alien's Household" category, as defined at 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3)(iii), are also classifiable E-1.  A G-series passport or travel orders is evidence of eligibility for rights and benefits as other members of household.  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(4).  Individuals accompanying TECRO representatives who do not meet the definition of "immediate family" as described in 9 FAM 402.3-4(J) may potentially qualify for a B-2 visa (see 9 FAM 402.2-4(B)(5)) or another NIV based on their purpose of travel.

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(4)  (U) Individuals Assigned to TECRO and/or Immediate Family Members Authorized Admission for Duration of Status (D/S)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) CBP admits individuals assigned to TECRO and their immediate family members for duration of status and annotates the Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, “D/S” for these individuals at the POE.  Individuals designated or seconded as employees of TECRO for a temporary travel purpose will also be admitted duration of status at the POE.

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(5)  (U) Correction of Admit Until Date to Duration of Status

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) In the event that an individual assigned to TECRO, and their immediate family members, are admitted by CBP at the POE for a specified period, a correction should be made to properly annotate the Form I-94 with  "D/S".

b. (U) TECRO must submit an email through AIT to CA/VO/DO/DL diplomaticvisas@state.gov requesting a “Correction to D/S” and include a copy of the current I-94 and copy of the passport bio page.

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(6)  (U) Employment Authorization Document for TECRO Immediate Family

(CT:VISA-2047;   08-14-2024)

a. (U) The spouse or unmarried son or daughter of a designated employee of TECRO may apply for employment authorization under 8 CFR 274a.12(C)(2).  To be eligible to apply for employment authorization under this section, unmarried sons and daughters of TECRO designated employees who are older than 21 must meet the definition of "immediate family" members set forth in 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3).  They must also fall within the definition of the term "dependent" set forth in 8 CFR 214.2(A)(2).

b. (U) Accordingly, employment authorization may be requested by unmarried sons and daughters of TECRO designated employees who are older than 21 years of age, under the age of 23, and in full-time attendance as students at post-secondary educational institutions as provided in 8 CFR 214.2(A)(2)(III).  Under no circumstances may the employment authorization benefits afforded to dependents of TECRO employees exceed those provided to dependents under 8 CFR 214.2(A)(2) and (G)(2).  TECRO dependents seeking to apply for employment authorization should follow existing procedures set forth in 8 CFR 274a.

c. (U) Family members of long term TDY employees of TECRO that are not designated employees of TECRO are not eligible for employment authorization.

9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(7)  (U) Representatives of Taiwan (B-1/B-2 or C-1)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Visa Classification:  Representatives of Taiwan and their accompanying family members traveling to the United States on short-term business on behalf of Taiwan are classifiable B-1/B-2.  Employees or secondees of TECRO traveling for temporary trade related activities as described above may be eligible for E-1 visas in accordance with the guidance at 9 FAM 402.3-5(I)(2).  Representatives of Taiwan and their accompanying family members transiting the United States may also be classifiable as B-1/B-2 and/or C-1 nonimmigrants.  They may also be eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program.

b. (U) Fingerprinting:  You may waive the fingerprinting requirements for representatives of Taiwan holding a position equivalent to cabinet level rank or higher and their accompanying spouses.  If fingerprints are waived, visa validity should be limited.  (See paragraph c below.)  All other representatives of Taiwan must follow fingerprinting requirements (see 9 FAM 303.7-4).

c. (U) Visa Validity:  Individuals who are eligible to have their fingerprints waived must be issued limited validity 3 month B visas unless the applicant provides or has previously provided a full set of fingerprints that can be reused.  See 9 FAM 303.7-4(B)(1).

d. (U) Passport/Passport Waiver:  All B visas must be placed in a regular passport or on form DS-232 (see 9 FAM 403.9-6(B)).

9 FAM 402.3-6  (U) UN INVITEES/FOREIGN GOVERNMENT Officials in Transit – C-2 AND C-3 Visas

9 FAM 402.3-6(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

9 FAM 402.3-6(A)(1)  (U) Immigration and Nationality Act

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) INA 101(a)(15)(C) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(C)); INA 212(d)(8) (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(8)).

9 FAM 402.3-6(A)(2)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 CFR 41.23.

9 FAM 402.3-6(B)  (U) In General

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) C-2 Visas: 

(1)  Unavailable

(2)  Unavailable

(3)  Unavailable

(a)  Unavailable

(b)  Unavailable

(4)  Unavailable

(5)  Unavailable

(6)  Unavailable

b. (U) C-3 Visas:  An accredited official of a foreign government intending to proceed in immediate and continuous transit through the United States on official business for that government is entitled to the benefits of INA 212(d)(8) and is classifiable C-3 under the provisions of INA 101(a)(15)(C).  The foreign government must grant similar privileges to officials of the United States.  Members of the immediate family, personal or domestic employees of such an official receive the same classification as the principal applicant.

c.  (U) Transit Visa:  For information on transit visas for non-diplomatic or non-official purposes see 9 FAM 402.4.

9 FAM 402.3-6(C)  (U) Ineligibilities

(CT:VISA-1266;   04-16-2021)

(U) C-2 and C-3 (except for personal or domestic employees) visa classifications are exempt from most visa ineligibilities under INA 212(a).  Of the INA 212(a) ineligibilities, only INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), INA 212(a)(3)(C), and INA 212(a)(7)(B) apply (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(B)).

9 FAM 402.3-6(D)  (U) Exemptions and Travel Limitations for Holders of C-2 Visas

9 FAM 402.3-6(D)(1)  (U) Admission to United Nations Headquarters District

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) Because of the obligations undertaken by the United States pursuant to the United Nations (UN) Headquarters Agreement, applicants for C-2 visas are exempted from the grounds of ineligibility listed in INA 212(a) except for INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), INA 212(a)(3)(C), and INA 212(a)(7)(B) thereof.  DHS regulations provide that C-2 visas holders may be admitted only on the following conditions:

(1)  (U) The applicant must proceed directly to New York City and remain continuously within the Headquarters District and its immediate vicinity, departing therefrom only to leave the United States; and

(2)  (U) The applicant must be in possession of a document establishing the applicant’s ability to enter a foreign country following the applicant’s sojourn in the United Nations Headquarters District.

9 FAM 402.3-6(D)(2)  (U) Defining "United Nation Headquarters District" and Explaining Travel Restrictions

(CT:VISA-1738;   03-22-2023)

(U) Persons referred to in 9 FAM 402.3-6(D)(1) above are restricted to “the United Nations Headquarters District and its immediate vicinity,” which must be advised to applicants holding C-2 visa.  Visas must be annotated with the following: "Travel restricted within a twenty-five-mile radius of Columbus Circle, New York, N.Y.”

9 FAM 402.3-6(D)(3)  (U) Waiver of Ineligibility

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) For discussions of waiver of ineligibility under INA 212(d)(3)(A) for C-2 visa applicants, see 9 FAM 305.4-3 and 9 FAM 701.2 (Classified).

9 FAM 402.3-6(E)  (U) Alternative Visa Class for Applicants Proceeding to the United Nations

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) An applicant who is classified C-2 may, as an alternative, be issued a B-1 or I visa if you find the applicant otherwise qualified for such classification and the applicant pays any required fee.  If the applicant is ineligible to receive a visa under any of the provisions of INA 212(a), you may recommend a waiver of ineligibility under INA 212(d)(3)(A) only if the circumstances in the applicant’s case justify such a recommendation pursuant to the rules set out in 9 FAM 305.4-3 and 9 FAM 701.2 (Classified).

9 FAM 402.3-6(F)  (U) Information Media Representatives Proceeding to United Nations

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) In the case of an applicant coming within the provisions of paragraph (3) of section 11 of the Headquarters Agreement with the United Nations (for example, representatives of the press, radio, film, or other information agencies), you may not issue a C-2 visa unless the applicant presents evidence of accreditation by the United Nations.  Refer an applicant for a C-2 visa inquiring about the procedure for obtaining such accreditation to the appropriate United Nations information center or to the Accreditation Office, Office of Public Information, United Nations, New York, N.Y.  If you obtain a waiver of ineligibility under INA 212(d)(3)(A) in the applicant’s behalf through the Department, you may presume that the Department has resolved the question of accreditation.

9 FAM 402.3-6(G)  (U) G-4 Travelers in Transit

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) See 9 FAM 402.3-7(I) below for information on issuing G-4 Visas to officers and employees of designated international organizations for transit through the United States.

9 FAM 402.3-7  (U) PERSONS ASSOCIATED WITH International Organizations - G Visas

9 FAM 402.3-7(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

9 FAM 402.3-7(A)(1)  (U) Immigration and Nationality Act

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) INA 101(a)(15)(G) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(G).

9 FAM 402.3-7(A)(2)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 CFR 41.21; 22 CFR 41.24.

9 FAM 402.3-7(A)(3)  (U) United States Code

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 U.S.C. 288.

9 FAM 402.3-7(B)  (U) G Visa Classifications  

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) G visas are broken down into 5 categories and are explained in detail below.  G-1, G-2, and G-3 visas are for foreign government officials traveling for activities related to a designated international organization (as opposed to bilateral type activities classifiable as A-1 or A-2), while G-4 visas are for officers and employees of designated international organizations.  G-5 visas are for the personal employees, attendants, and domestic workers of the G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 principal.  An applicant who meets the requirements below (including any requirements in 9 FAM 402.3-4 above under "General Requirements" and those in this section below) are classifiable in one of the categories listed below:

(1)  (U) G-1 visas:  Issued to foreign government officials and employees assigned to work for 90 days or more as members of a country's permanent mission to a designated international organization, regardless of rank, and to members of their immediate families.  Mission members having a rank equivalent to diplomatic agents should be at least 21 when entering the U.S.  G-1 visas are appropriate for the principal permanent representative as well as the mission’s secretaries, chauffeurs, and custodial employees.  However, a G-1 visa should not be issued to domestic employees of such mission members; domestic employees are classifiable as G-5.

(2)  (U) G-2 visas:  Issued to foreign government officials and employees traveling for less than 90 days as representatives of a recognized government for activities of a designated international organization and to members of their immediate families. Such representatives may be traveling to attend meetings of a designated international organization such as to represent their governments at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) or as TDY officers to that country’s mission to the international organization.    G-2 visas may also be issued to military officers from non-NATO member countries who are assisting the United Nations Secretariat with peacekeeping matters.  (Military officers from NATO member countries are classifiable NATO.)  See 9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(1) and 9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(2) below.

(3)  (U) G-3 visas:  Issued to foreign government officials and employees traveling as representatives of a non-recognized government (rare) or on behalf of a government who is not a member to the international organization for which the official's activities relate.  G-3 visas are appropriate for such officials regardless of rank and are also issued to members of their immediate families.  This includes TDY travel for representatives of such governments to participate in temporary meetings of designated international organizations (e.g., a meeting of the UNGA and Security Council).

(4)  (U) G-4 visas:  Issued to officers and employees of designated international organizations traveling on official business on behalf of the international organization, and to members of their immediate families.  G-4 visas may be issued to personnel of any rank who are proceeding to the United States to take up an appointment at a designated international organization (including the United Nations) or traveling on behalf of the international organization for temporary (TDY) travel.  G-4 visas are also appropriate for officers and employees of designated international organizations, who are not assigned in the United States, but are transiting the United States on official business on behalf of that international organization.  For transit G-4 visas, the number of entries must be limited to the official request.  Domestic employees of international organization personnel are not classifiable as G-4 and should be issued G-5 visas if eligible.

(5)  (U) G-5 visas:  Issued to the attendants and personal employees of persons in G-1 through G-4 nonimmigrant status.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9 below.

b. (U) A person who meets the foregoing requirements for G-1, G-3 (non-TDY), or G-4 classification (non-TDY or transit) is expected to perform services for the foreign government or international organization on an essentially full-time basis (at least 35 hours per week) and to reside in the metropolitan area of the international organization where the individual will be serving.

c.  (U) Interns: Interns applying for a visa to work at a mission to an IO or at an IO may qualify for a G visa if the intern's visa application is accompanied by a diplomatic note that contains either (1) an express statement that the mission or IO considers the applicant its employee during the internship, or (2) an acknowledgement that the mission or IO will exercise ultimate authority over the continuation of the intern's assignment and the control and direction of the official duties to be performed for the duration of the intern's U.S. assignment.  The duration of the internship and status as paid/unpaid are not relevant in classifying an intern as G-1 (intern at a mission to a designated IO for more than 90 days), G-2 (intern at a mission to a designated IO for less than 90 days), G-3 (intern at a mission to a designated IO where the foreign government is not a member of the IO or where the government is not recognized), or G-4 (intern at a designated IO). 

9 FAM 402.3-7(C)  Unavailable

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 applicants are subject to limited grounds of ineligibility.  Of the INA 212(a) ineligibilities, only INA 212(a)(3)(A), INA 212(a)(3)(B), and INA 212(a)(3)(C) apply.  Thus, an applicant who demonstrates that they are qualified for a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa may not be refused as an intending immigrant or on grounds of health, criminal activities, or prior visa violations.  If a person may be ineligible on grounds other than INA 212(a) (for example under a Presidential Proclamation), send an AO to L/CA.  Before issuing a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa to an applicant who would otherwise be ineligible under INA 212(a)(2)(E) if such applicant were applying for a visa other than a G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa, you must submit an AO to L/CA.  See 9 FAM 302.3-7(C). 

b. Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)  (U) Persons Proceeding to the United Nations

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(1)  (U) Expeditious Processing of United Nations Visa Applications

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Representatives to the United Nations and officers of the United Nations Secretariat are sensitive to the performance by the United States of its host obligations under the Headquarters Agreement with the United Nations.  Consequently, any mention of the United Nations on a visa application calls for expeditious processing, or, where necessary, prompt submission for an AO.

b. (U) When the United Nations was invited to locate its headquarters in the United States it was evident that persons of many political backgrounds would need to be admitted to the United States on United Nations business.  For this reason, persons entitled to international organization status are exempt from most of the grounds of ineligibility listed in INA 212(a).  See 9 FAM 402.3-7(C) above or 22 CFR 41.21(d) for the grounds of ineligibility that apply to these applicants.

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(2)  (U) Interns and Volunteers Temporarily Employed at the United Nations

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

a. (U) Interns: For information on interns see 9 FAM 402.3-7(B) paragraph c above.

b. (U) Volunteers: United Nations Volunteers applying for a visa to work at the United Nations may qualify for a G-4 visa because they are classified as UN personnel.  The visa application must be accompanied by a Transportation Cable/Note from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat as described in 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(3) below.  G-4 visa holders are expected to work on a full-time basis (at least 35 hours a week).  Applicants seeking to perform part-time work as a UN volunteer may qualify for a B-1 visa.  Submit an AO to L/CA to determine eligibility.

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(3)  (U) Transportation Cable/Note Required for All United Nations Officers and Employees and Their Personal Employees

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

a. (U) G-4 visas may only be issued to officers and employees of the United Nations and to their immediate families based on an e-fax request authorized by the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat ("Transportation Cable/Note").  The note must not come from any other UN office, except that a designated international organization listed in 9 FAM 402.3-7(M), other than the United Nations itself, may provide its own request.  A Transportation Cable/Note is also required for personal employees (classified as G-5) of officers and employees of the UN (classified as G-4).  A Transportation Cable/Note from the Chief is not required in the case of a G-5 who will be employed by a government official classified G-1, G-2, or G-3.

b. (U) United Nations Organizations for Which a Transportation Cable/Note Is Required from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat include the following:

(1)  (U) Principal Organs (including their funds and program, any subsidiary organs and other sub-entities)

General Assembly

Security Council

Economic and Social Council

Trusteeship Council

Secretariat

(2)  (U) United Nations Organization:

World Food Program (WFP)

United Nations University (UNU)

United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)

United Nations Center for Human Settlements (UN HABITAT)

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)

United Nations Development Program (UNDP)

United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA)

(3)  (U) Regional Commissions:

Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)

Economic Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)

Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLAC)

c.  (U) United Nations Peacekeeping Operations and Observer Missions Also Require Transportation Cable/Note from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat (Alphabetized by Region):

(1) (U) AFRICAN AFFAIRS (AF):

(U) CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC - MINUSCA

United Nations Integrated Multidimensional Mission in the Central African Republic

April 2014 - to present

(U) DARFUR – UNAMID

United Nations Africa Mission in Darfur

July 2007 – to present

(U) DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO – MONUSCO

United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

July 2010 – to present

(U) MALI – MINUSMA

United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali

April 2013 – to present

(U) SUDAN /SOUTHERN SUDAN – UNISFA

United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei

June 2011 - to present

(U) SOUTHERN SUDAN - UNMISS

United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan

July 2011 - to present

(2) (U) EUROPEAN AND EURASIAN AFFAIRS (EUR):

(U) CYPRUS - UNFICYP

United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus

March 1964 - to present

(U) KOSOVO - UNMIK

United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo

June 1999 - to present

(3) (U) NEAR EASTERN AFFAIRS (NEA):

(U) GOLAN HEIGHTS - UNDOF

United Nations Disengagement Observer Force

June 1974 - to present

(U) LEBANON - UNIFIL

United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon

March 1978 to present

(U) MIDDLE EAST - UNTSO

United Nations Truce Supervision Organization

June 1948 to present

(U) WESTERN SAHARA - MINURSO

United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara

September 1991 - to present

(4) (U) SOUTH AND CENTRAL ASIAN AFFAIRS (SCA):

(U) INDIA/PAKISTAN - UNMOGIP

United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan

January 1949 - to present

(5)  (U) WESTERN HEMISPHERE AFFAIRS (WHA):

(U) HAITI - MINUJUSTH

United Nations Transition Mission in Haiti

August 1997 to present

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(4)  (U) Participants in United Nations Secretariat Exchange Visitor Program

(CT:VISA-362;   05-04-2017)

(U) Participants in the exchange visitor program of the Training and Fellowship Program Section, Bureau of Technical Assistance Operations, United Nations Secretariat, are classifiable J.  See 9 FAM 402.5-6 regarding exchange visitors.

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(5)  (U) Director and Teachers of United Nations International School

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

(U) A G4 visa may be issued to a qualified applicant destined to the United Nations International School (UNIS) as a director or teacher, if you receive a request by letter or telegram from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat that meets the requirements described in 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(3) above.  Members of the immediate family of such UNIS directors and teachers receive the same classification as the principal.

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(6)  (U) United Nations Laissez-Passer (UNLP)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Issuing G-4 Visa in United Nations Laissez-Passer (UNLP):

(1)  (U) The UNLP is a bound booklet in passport format.  The cover bears the gold embossed seal of the United Nations, and is either red or light blue in color, depending upon the rank of the recipient. 

(2)  (U) Only a G-4 visa may be placed in a UNLP.  The bearer must present a Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, and a photograph for a G-4 visa in connection with the UNLP.  See 9 FAM 303.6-2(A)(1) for photograph requirements.  You must also receive a written or telegraphic confirmation from the Department or from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat, indicating that the applicant is an employee of the United Nations traveling on official business.

b. (U) Validity of G-4 Visa in UNLP:  The validity of a G-4 visa placed in a UNLP must be restricted to cover the official travel certified in the letter or telegram from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat.  The visa may be for multiple entries, unless the letter or telegram from the Chief of the Transportation Section, United Nations Secretariat, specifies limited or single entry.  If the letter or telegram is not clear on these points, contact the U.S. Mission to the United Nations (USUN) either by phone at (212) 415-4275 or by email at USUNvisas@state.gov.  You can also reach out to CA/VO/DO/DL, who will coordinate with USUN. 

c.  (U) Placing G-4 Visa in National Passport Rather Than in UNLP:  When issuing a G-4 visa to the Secretary General, all undersecretaries, and all assistant secretaries general of the United Nations in a national passport, rather than in a UNLP, the G-4 visa may be issued for the time prescribed by the reciprocity schedule of their nationality (a maximum of 60 months) with multiple entries. 

d. (U) For all others at the United Nations or United Nations Secretariat, refer to the reciprocity schedule of the country concerned.

9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(7)  (U) United Nations Permanent Observer Mission Representatives and Dependents

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

a. (U) Types of Missions:  Permanent Observer Missions at the United Nations include Intergovernmental Organizations and other entities invited to participate as observers.  United Nations Observer Mission personnel may be entitled to A or G visas because they are foreign government officials traveling on behalf of the foreign government or are officers or employees of a designated IO (e.g., African Union representatives).  However, there are numerous United Nations Observer Missions whose representatives do not qualify for A or G visas, generally because they are representatives of an organization that is not designated under the International Organizations Immunities Act (IOIA) and therefore are not entitled to G-4 classification.  In addition, certain individuals who are invited by the U.N. may apply and qualify for a B-1 or C-2 visa, as appropriate.

b. (U) B Visa Classification:  Principal applicants seeking to serve at United Nations Permanent Observer Missions who are not otherwise entitled to A or G visas are to be issued B-1 visas.  Dependents are to be issued B-2 visas. See 9 FAM 403.9-5 for visa annotation procedures.

c.  (U) Exemption from MRV and Reciprocity Fees:  Principal visa applicants of United Nations Permanent Observer Missions who are issued 'B' visas are exempt from all visa fees.  See also 9 FAM 402.3-4(F), 9 FAM 403.4-3(A) and 9 FAM 403.4-3(B).

d. (U) Notification Requirements Regarding B Visas for Permanent Observers:  Observer Missions are not required to notify the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN) of visa requests for Observer Mission personnel and their dependents but may do so on occasion via e-mail to USUNvisas@state.gov.  If the Observer Mission notifies USUN that it will request a visa for an individual, then the USUN Visa Unit will inform the visa section that it received notification that an applicant is Observer Mission personnel and will seek a visa to travel to the Observer Mission.  If you have any questions regarding observer mission personnel, reach out to L/CA, CA/VO/DO/DL (diplomaticvisas@state.gov), and the USUN Visa Unit.  You can reach the USUN Visa Unit by e-mail (USUNvisas@state.gov).

e. Unavailable  

9 FAM 402.3-7(E)  (U) Persons Proceeding to the Organization of American States (OAS)

9 FAM 402.3-7(E)(1)  (U) Issuing G-4 Visas to Officers and Employees of OAS General Secretariat

(CT:VISA-362;   05-04-2017)

(U) The Secretariat for Management, through the Department of Human Resources (Personnel Office) of the Organization of American States (OAS) General Secretariat, is responsible for requesting the issuance of visas for persons appointed to, or under contract to serve in, the General Secretariat of the OAS.  You must accept requests for G-4 visas on behalf of such persons (including immediate family members (also classifiable as G-4) and domestic employees (classifiable as G-5)) only from the Secretariat for Management or from the Department of Human Resources of the OAS.

9 FAM 402.3-7(E)(2)  (U) Official Travel Document of OAS Not Considered a "Passport"

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) The official travel document of the OAS is issued to an employee of the OAS General Secretariat or other agency of the OAS.  The purpose of the document is to identify the holder as an officer or employee of an agency of the OAS, and to facilitate travel compatible with the interests of the OAS.  The document is not a "passport" as defined in INA 101(a)(30), and therefore, visas must not be placed in this document.  See also 9 FAM 403.9-3(A)(2).

9 FAM 402.3-7(E)(3)  (U) Personnel at the Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) and Inter-American Defense College (IADC)

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

a. (U) G-1 Visas Classification:  IADB Members of the Council of Delegates and persons assigned to serve on the delegations as diplomatic advisors and accredited as such at their representative OAS mission are classifiable G-1. 

b. (U) G-4 Visa Classification:  The following staff positions at the IADB are classifiable as G-4: The Chair and Vice-Chair at the IADB; the Director of Staff at the IADB; the Secretary of the IADB; and members of the international staff of the IADB, including commissioned military officers from the various OAS member states and civil members of the international staff.  Staff members and advisors for the IADC, including the Vice Director and Chief of Studies at the IADC and military officers who are advisors at the IADC (i.e., staff of the IADB at the IADC) are also classifiable G-4.  For students at the IADC, see 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(5) above.

9 FAM 402.3-7(F)  (U) Participants in Courses Given by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Institute

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

(U) An applicant who is nominated by a member government of the IMF and is accepted by the IMF to attend courses given by the Fund's Institute, is classifiable G‑2.  The applicant must possess evidence from the Fund certifying acceptance for participation in a specific course.  The request for the visa must be made by way of diplomatic note from the appropriate foreign government office. See 9 FAM 402.3-4(C) above.

9 FAM 402.3-7(G)  (U) Participants at the Economic Development Institute of International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank)

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) An applicant who is nominated by a member government of the World Bank and accepted by the World Bank to attend a course given at the Economic Development Institute of the Bank is classifiable G‑2.  The applicant must possess a letter from the Economic Development Institute of the Bank certifying acceptance for participation in the course.  The request for a visa must be made by way of diplomatic note from the appropriate foreign government office (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(C) above).

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)  (U) Employees of INTELSAT

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(1)  (U) Employee Six Months or More Before Privatization Date

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) An applicant employed as an officer or employee of INTELSAT, six months or more before July 18, 2001, the date of privatization, is  a nonimmigrant under INA 101(a)(15)(G)(iv) (G-4) if the applicant:

(1)  (U) Was continuously an officer or employee of INTELSAT during the six-month period before the date of privatization; and

(2)  (U) Maintained lawful nonimmigrant status as a G-4 during that six-month period.

b. (U) Immediate family members of applicants meeting the criteria in paragraph a above are also entitled to G-4 status.  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(J) above regarding qualification as immediate family.

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(2)  (U) Employee of Successor or Separated Entity of INTELSAT

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) If an applicant commences service as an officer or employee of a successor or separated entity of INTELSAT before the date of privatization, but after March 17, 2000, such applicant may be classified as a nonimmigrant under INA 101(a)(15)(G)(iv) (G-4), if the applicant:

(1)  (U) Was continuously an officer or employee during the six-month period before the date of privatization; and

(2)  (U) Maintained lawful nonimmigrant status as a G-4 during that six-month period.

b. (U) The term "successor entity" means any privatized entity created from the privatization of INTELSAT or from the assets of INTELSAT.  It does not include any entity that is a separated entity.

c.  (U) The term "separated entity" means a privatized entity to which a portion of the assets owned by INTELSAT are transferred before full privatization of INTELSAT.

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(3)  (U) Newly Hired INTELSAT Personnel

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) Officers and/or employees of privatized INTELSAT who were hired after the date of privatization (July 18, 2001), as well as any employees who may have been hired less than six months before privatization, are not eligible for G-4 status and would require an IV, H visa, or another classification of visa authorizing employment.

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(4)  (U) Domestic Workers of Privatized INTELSAT Personnel

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) Domestic employees of privatized INTELSAT personnel are not eligible for G-5 status, regardless of whether their employer holds G-4 status under the "grandfathering" provisions in 9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(1) and 9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(2) above.

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(5)  (U) Annotating Visas of Privatized INTELSAT Employees

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) In addition to the standard annotation for G-4 visas (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(H) above), G-4 visas issued to qualifying privatized INTELSAT officers and/or employees and their immediate family should include the following additional line at the end of the annotation:

     “ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 301 OF Public Law 106-396.”

9 FAM 402.3-7(H)(6)  (U) International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (ITSO) Personnel

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) A small part of former INTELSAT was not privatized and will remain a qualifying international organization under the acronym ITSO (International Telecommunications Satellite Organization).  ITSO personnel and their immediate family are eligible for G-4 classification regardless of the date on which the principal applicant was hired.  In addition, domestic employees of ITSO personnel are eligible for G-5 classification as domestic employees of personnel employed by an international organization.

9 FAM 402.3-7(I)  (U) Issuing G-4 Visas for Transit Purposes

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Officers and employees of designated international organizations who are not assigned in the United States may be accorded G-4 classification to transit the United States on official business of the international organization.  Endorse G‑4 visas issued to such applicants who are generally on, or returning from home leave, as follows:

          VALID FOR IMMEDIATE AND CONTINUOUS TRANSIT ONLY

b. (U) Such an applicant who expects to spend time in the United States for personal business or pleasure must also possess a B visa.

9 FAM 402.3-7(J)  (U) Issuing Diplomatic Type or Official Type Visas to Applicants Classified G-4

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) Except in those cases listed in 22 CFR 41.26(c)(2) (see also 9 FAM 402.3-10(C) below regarding diplomatic type visas), persons who are classifiable G-4 are not entitled to receive diplomatic type G-4 visas.  In all G-4 visa cases, you must receive a request, as described in 9 FAM 402.3-7(D)(3) above, from a designated international organization listed in 9 FAM 402.3-7(M) below, before G-4 visa issuance. 

9 FAM 402.3-7(K)  (U) Issuing  G-5 Visa to Attendants and Personal Employees

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

(U) See 9 FAM 402.3-9 below, Personal or Domestic Employees of Officials – A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Visas.

9 FAM 402.3-7(L)  (U) Reserved

(CT:VISA-1404;   10-29-2021)

9 FAM 402.3-7(M)  (U) List of Designated International Organizations

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

(U) The following is an alphabetical listing of the international organizations that have been designated by Executive Order pursuant to various treaties or under the International Organizations Immunities Act (IOIA) of December 29, 1945.  A G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 visa may only be issued to an applicant who is traveling to the United States (or in some cases transiting the United States) for activities of one of these international organizations. If you have questions regarding whether an office or entity is part of one of these organizations, contact your L/CA portfolio holder.

International Organization	E.O.	International Organization	E.O.
African Development Bank	E.O. 12403 (Feb. 8, 1983)	African Development Fund	E.O. 11977 (Mar. 14, 1977)
Asian Development Bank	E.O. 11334 (Mar. 7, 1967)	African Union	E.O. 13377 (April 13, 2005)
Border Environmental Cooperation Commission	E.O. 12904 (Mar. 16, 1994)	Caribbean Organization	E.O. 10983 (Dec. 30, 1961)
Commission for Environmental Cooperation	E.O. 12904 (Mar. 16, 1994)	Commission for Labor Cooperation	E.O. 12904 (Mar. 16, 1994)
Commission for the Study of Alternatives to the Panama Canal	E.O. 12567 (Oct. 2, 1986	Customs Cooperation Council	E.O. 11596 (June 5, 1971)
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development	E.O. 12766 (June 18, 1991	European Central Bank	E.O. 13307 (May 29, 2003)
European Space Agency (formerly the European Space Research Organization)	E.O. 11318 (Dec. 5, 1966) & E.O. 12766 (June 18, 1991)
Food and Agriculture Organization	E.O. 9698 (Feb. 19, 1946)	Global Fund	E.O. 13395 (Jan. 13, 2006)
Great Lakes Fishery Commission	E.O. 11059 (Oct. 23, 1962)	GRECO (Council of Europe in Respect of the Group of States Against Corruption)	E.O. 13240 (Dec. 18, 2001)
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices	E.O. 13052 (June 30, 1997)	Inter-American Defense Board	E.O. 10228 (Mar. 26, 1951)
Inter-American Development Bank	E.O. 10873 (April 8, 1960) & E.O. 11019 (April 27, 1962)	Inter-American Institute for Cooperation for Agriculture	E.O. 9751 (July 11, 1946)
Inter-American Investment Corporation	E.O. 12567 (Oct. 2, 1986)	Inter-American Statistical Institute	E.O. 9751 (July 11, 1946)
Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission	E.O. 11059 (Oct. 23, 1962)	International Atomic Energy Agency	E.O. 10727 (Aug. 31, 1957)
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank)	E.O. 9751 (July 11, 1946)	International Boundary and Water Commission - the United States and Mexico	E.O. 12467 (Mar. 2, 1984)
International Centre for Settlement  of Investment Disputes	E.O. 11966 (Jan. 19, 1977)	International Civil Aviation Organization	E.O. 9863 (May 31, 1947)
International Coffee Organization	E.O. 11225 (May 22, 1965)	International Committee of the Red Cross	E.O. 12643 (June 23, 1988)
International Cotton Advisory Committee	E.O. 9911 (Dec. 19, 1947)	International Cotton Institute	E.O. 11283 (May 27, 1966)
International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) (Limited Privileges)	E.O. 12425 (June 16, 1983)	International Development Association	E.O. 11966 (Jan. 19, 1977)
International Development Law Organization	E.O. 12842 (Mar. 29, 1993)	International Fertilizer Development Center	E.O. 11977 (Mar. 14, 1977)
International Finance Corporation	E.O. 10680 (Oct. 2, 1956)	International Food Policy Research Institute (Limited Privileges)	E.O. 12359 (April 22, 1982)
International Fund for Agricultural Development	E.O. 12732 (Oct. 31, 1990)	International Hydrographic Bureau	E.O. 10769 (May 29, 1958)
International Joint Commission - the United States and Canada	E.O. 9972 (June 25, 19480	International Labor Organization	E.O. 9698 (Feb. 19, 1946)
International Maritime Organization (formerly the Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization)	E.O. 10795 (Dec. 13, 1958)	International Mobile Satellite Organization	E.O. 12238 (Sept. 12, 1980)
International Monetary Fund	E.O. 9751 (July 11, 1946)	International Organization for Migration (Formerly Provisional Intergovernmental Committee for the Movement of Migrants for Europe and Intergovernmental Committee for European Migration)	E.O. 10335 (Mar. 28, 1952)
International Pacific Halibut Commission	E.O. 11059 (Oct. 23, 1962)	International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)	E.O. 13705 (Sept. 3, 2015)
International Secretariat for Volunteer Service	E.O. 11363 (July 20, 1967)	International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (INTELSAT)	E.O. 11718  (May 14, 1973) & E.O. 11966 (Jan. 19, 1977)
International Telecommunication Union	E.O. 9863 (May 31, 1947)	International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (Limited Privileges)	E.O. 12986 (Jan. 18, 1966)
International Wheat Advisory Committee (International Wheat Council)	E.O. 9823 (Jan. 24, 1947)	Interparliamentary Union	E.O. 13097 (Aug. 7, 1998)
Israel-United States Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation	E.O. 12956 (Mar. 13, 1995)	ITER International Fusion Energy Organization	E.O. 13451 (Nov. 19, 2007)
Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization	E.O. 12997 (April 1, 1996)	Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency	E.O. 12467 (Aug. 22, 1988)
Multinational Force and Observers	E.O. 12359 (April 22, 1982)	North American Development Bank	E.O. 12904 (Mar. 16, 1994)
North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission	E.O. 12895 (Jan. 26, 1994)	North Pacific Marine Science Organization	E.O. 12894 (Jan. 26, 1994)
Office of the High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the International Civilian  Office in Kosovo	E.O. 13568 (Mar. 8, 2011)	Organization for American States (including Pan American Union)	E.O. 10533 (June 3, 1954)
Organization for Eastern Caribbean States	E.O. 12669 (Feb. 20, 1989)	Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (formerly the Organization for European Economic Cooperation)	E.O. 10133 (June 27, 1950)
Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons	E.O. 13049 (June 11, 1997)	Pacific Salmon Commission	E.O. 12567 (Oct. 2, 1986)
Pan American Health Organization (including Pan American Sanitary Bureau)	E.O. 10864 (Feb. 18, 1960)	Pacific Community (formerly the South Pacific Commission)	E.O. 10086 (Nov. 25, 1949)
United International Bureau for the Protection of Intellectual Property (BIPRI)	E.O. 11484 (Sept. 29, 1969)	United Nations	E.O. 9698 (Feb. 19, 1946)
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization	E.O. 9863 (May 31, 1947)	United Nations Industrial Development Organization	E.O. 12628 (Mar. 8, 1988)
Universal Postal Union	E.O. 10727 (Aug. 31, 1957)	World Health Organization	E.O. 10025 (Dec. 30, 1948)
World Intellectual Property Organization	E.O. 11866 (June 18, 1975)	World Meteorological Organization	E.O. 10676 (Sept. 1, 1959)
World Organization for Animal Health (OIE)   World Tourism Organization	E.O 13759 (Jan. 12, 2017)   E.O. 12507 (Mar. 22, 1985)	World Trade Organization	E.O. 13042 (April 9, 1997)

9 FAM 402.3-7(N)  (U) Adjudication Considerations for Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)-Affiliated Applicants

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. Unavailable

b. Unavailable

c.  Unavailable

d. Unavailable

e. Unavailable

f.  Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-8  (U) NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION (NATO) and member country Representatives, Officials, and Employees – NATO Visas

9 FAM 402.3-8(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

9 FAM 402.3-8(A)(1)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-1134;   08-06-2020)

(U) 22 CFR 41.1; 22 CFR 41.12; 22 CFR 41.25.

9 FAM 402.3-8(A)(2)  (U) Treaties and Agreements

(CT:VISA-1134;   08-06-2020)

(U) The United States is a party to various NATO agreements.  The following are most relevant for visa purposes:

(1) (U) Agreement Between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty Regarding the Status of Their Forces ("NATO SOFA");

(2) (U) Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters Set Up Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty ("Paris Protocol");

(3) (U) Agreement on the Status of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, National Representatives, and International Staff ("Ottawa Agreement");

(4) (U) Agreement Among the States Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty and the other States Participating in the Partnership for Peace Regarding the Status of their Forces ("PfP SOFA"); and

(5) (U) Further Additional Protocol to the PfP SOFA ("PfP SOFA 2").

9 FAM 402.3-8(B)  (U) General Information on NATO Visa Classifications

9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(1)  (U) In General

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) NATO visas are issued to help facilitate travel for certain NATO and NATO member country representatives, officials, and employees, including military members (armed service personnel and civilians) under the regime of various NATO agreements.  Foreign military personnel (armed service personnel and civilians) of a NATO member country are usually classifiable NATO when traveling in connection with their official duties; they are rarely classifiable A or G.  For example, a foreign military armed service member from a NATO member country, which country is a party to the NATO SOFA, traveling in relation to a military sales contract or for training with the U.S. military would be classifiable NATO-2. 

b. (U) The guidance provided at 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(4) above regarding A-2 visa classification is only applicable to personnel of foreign armed services from a country other than a NATO member country.  Follow the guidance provided at 9 FAM 402.3-5(D)(4) paragraph d for all International Military Students (IMS) and their adult accompanying family members traveling on NATO visas.  Military personnel of a NATO member country are usually only classifiable A-1 or A-2 if traveling in an official capacity to work at an embassy or consulate, such as to serve as a Defense Attaché, which is covered by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations as opposed to a NATO agreement.

9 FAM 402.3-8(B)(2)  (U) Categories of NATO Visas

(CT:VISA-1944;   03-07-2024)

a. (U) NATO visas are broken down into seven NIV categories.  Some NATO categories include "immediate family" (see 9 FAM 402.3-4(J)) while others include "dependents".  The term "dependents" is defined in the NATO SOFA and Paris Protocol agreements (see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E) below). 

(1) (U) NATO-1:  NATO-1 visas are appropriate for the Principal Permanent Representative of a member state to NATO (including any of its subsidiary bodies) who will be on assignment and resident in the United States as well as to the members of the official staff of such member state to NATO. NATO-1 visas are also appropriate for the Secretary General, Assistant Secretaries General, and Executive Secretary of NATO as well as other NATO officials of similar rank.  NATO-1 visas are appropriate for qualifying immediate family members of all the above NATO-1 personnel. 

(2) (U) NATO-2:  NATO-2 visas are appropriate for other representatives of a member state to NATO (including any of its subsidiary bodies), including representatives, advisers, and technical experts of delegations traveling to the United States temporarily, as well as to their qualifying immediate family members.  NATO-2 visas are also appropriate for "dependents" of a member of a "force" (as defined in NATO SOFA or Paris Protocol; see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E) below) and to the members of such a "force" if issued visas.  Members of a force may be traveling under the regime of NATO SOFA or PfP SOFA, which incorporates the terms of the NATO SOFA.  Members of a force are exempt from the visa requirement and may travel without a visa.  See 9 FAM 402.3-8(C) below. 

(3)  (U) NATO-3:  NATO-3 visas are appropriate for the official clerical staff accompanying a representative of a member state to NATO (including any of its subsidiary bodies) and their qualifying immediate family members.

(4) (U) NATO-4:  NATO-4 visas are appropriate for officials of NATO who are not classifiable NATO-1, (e.g., NATO officials traveling temporarily to the United States), and their qualifying immediate family members.

(5) (U) NATO-5:  NATO-5 visas are appropriate for experts, other than NATO officials classifiable NATO-4, who are employed in missions on behalf of NATO, and their "dependents" (as such term is defined in 9 FAM 402.3-8(E).

(6) (U) NATO-6:  NATO-6 visas are appropriate for members of a "civilian component" (as defined in NATO SOFA or Paris Protocol; see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E)) accompanying a "force" and to their "dependents". Members of a civilian component may be traveling under the regime of NATO SOFA or PfP SOFA, which incorporates the terms of the NATO SOFA. 

(7) (U) NATO-7:  NATO-7 visas are appropriate for the personal or domestic employees of a NATO-1, NATO-2, NATO-3, NATO-4, NATO-5, or NATO-6 nonimmigrant and qualifying immediate family members.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9 below. 

b. (U) If you have any questions as to whether an applicant is classifiable NATO, contact L/CA. 

9 FAM 402.3-8(C)  (U) NATO Members Countries

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) The following countries are currently parties to the North Atlantic Treaty signed in Washington on April 4, 1949, have ratified the Agreement on the Status of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, National Representatives and International Staff ("Ottawa Agreement"), are (with the exception of Sweden*) parties to the Agreement Between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty regarding the Status of their Forces (NATO SOFA), and are parties to the Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters Set Up Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty ("Paris Protocol"):

* You should consider Sweden a NATO member country for purposes of 9 FAM 402.3-8.

b. (U) There are some non-NATO member countries who have ratified the Agreement Among the States Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty and the other States Participating in the Partnership for Peace Regarding the Status of their Forces ("PfP SOFA"), and the Further Additional Protocol to the PfP SOFA ("PfP SOFA 2"), which incorporate the NATO SOFA for non-NATO member countries.  Representatives of these non-NATO member countries traveling pursuant to the PfP SOFA are classifiable A-2 (if a visa is issued), not NATO. 

9 FAM 402.3-8(D)  (U) Passport and Visa Exemptions for Certain NATO Personnel

(CT:VISA-1134;   08-06-2020)

(U) Armed services personnel of a NATO member country who qualify as a member of a "force" under the NATO SOFA or Paris Protocol agreements are exempt from the passport and visa requirements.  See 22 CFR 41.1(d) and 22 CFR 41.1(e).  Such members of a "force" may choose to apply for a NATO visa rather than travel without a visa.  The "dependents" (as defined in NATO SOFA and Paris Protocol, see 9 FAM 402.3-8(E) below) of such members of a "force" require NATO visas (NATO-2 or NATO-6).  

9 FAM 402.3-8(E)  (U) Applying NATO SOFA and Paris Protocol Agreements

(CT:VISA-1134;   08-06-2020)

a. (U) Applicable definitions from the Protocol on the Status of International Military Headquarters Set Up Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty ("Paris Protocol") include:

Article 1 - In the present Protocol the expression:

(a)  “The Agreement” means the Agreement signed in London on 19th June, 1951, by the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty regarding the Status of their Forces;

(b)  “Supreme Headquarters” means Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers in Europe, Headquarters of the Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic and any equivalent international military Headquarters set up pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty;

(c)  “Allied Headquarters” means any Supreme Headquarters and any international military Headquarters set up pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty which is immediately subordinate to a Supreme Headquarters; and

(d)  “North Atlantic Council” means the Council established by Article 9 of the North Atlantic Treaty or any of its subsidiary bodies authorized to act on its behalf.”

Article 3 - For the purpose of applying the Agreement to an Allied Headquarters the expressions “force”, “civilian component” and “dependent”, wherever they occur in the Agreement, shall have the meanings set out below:

(a)  “Force” means the personnel attached to the Allied Headquarters who belong to the land, sea or air armed services of any Party to the North Atlantic Treaty;

(b)  “Civilian component” means civilian personnel who are not stateless persons, nor nationals of any State which is not a Party to the Treaty, nor nationals of, nor ordinarily resident in the receiving State, and who are (i) attached to the Allied Headquarters and in the employ of an armed service of a Party to the North Atlantic Treaty or (ii) in such categories of civilian personnel in the employ of the Allied Headquarters as the North Atlantic Council shall decide; and

(c)  “Dependent” means the spouse of a member of a force or civilian component, as defined in sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of this paragraph, or a child of such member depending on him or her for support.

b. (U) Applicable definitions from the NATO Status of Forces Agreement ("NATO SOFA") include:

Article I - In this Agreement the expression:

(a)  “Force” means the personnel belonging to the land, sea, or air armed services of one Contracting Party when in the territory of another Contracting Party in the North Atlantic Treaty area in connection with their official duties, provided that the two Contracting Parties concerned may agree that certain individuals, units, or formations shall not be regarded as constituting or included in a “force” for the purposes of the present Agreement;

(b)  “Civilian component” means the civilian personnel accompanying a force of a Contracting Party who are in the employ of an armed service of that Contracting Party, and who are not stateless persons, nor nationals of any State which is not a Party to the North Atlantic Treaty, nor nationals of, nor ordinarily resident in, the State in which the force is located; and

(c)  “Dependent” means the spouse of a member of a force or of a civilian component, or a child of such member depending on him or her for support.

9 FAM 402.3-8(F)  Unavailable

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

Unavailable

9 FAM 402.3-8(G)  (U) Issuing NATO-7 Visas to Personal or Domestic Employees

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

a. (U) Wilberforce Act Requirements:  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(C)(1) for general information. See 9 FAM 402.3-9(C)(2) below for information about Wilberforce Act enforcement and your responsibilities.

b. (U) Interview Required:  All applicants for NATO-7 visas must be interviewed, regardless of whether the applicant has been issued a previous visa in the same classification to work for the same employer.  The interview of a NATO-7 applicant must be conducted outside the presence of the employer or recruitment agent.

c.  (U) Reciprocity:  NATO-7 visas are not limited to nationals from NATO party countries.  The personal or domestic employees of an employer classified NATO-1 through NATO-6 may be issued a NATO-7 visa in a passport of a non-member country.  However, only NATO party countries’ reciprocity schedules provide data for NATO visas.  Therefore, the number of entries, fees, and validity for personal employees from non-member NATO countries seeking a NATO-7 visa is based on the A-3 data provided in the reciprocity schedule of the respective country of the NATO-7 applicant.  See 9 FAM 403.9-4(C) below.

9 FAM 402.3-8(H)  (U) Issuing NATO Visas to Immediate Family and Dependents Not Possessing Citizenship of a NATO Member Country

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) Immediate family members and dependents of NATO status holders are eligible for NATO visas even if they are citizens of a non-member country (and even if the principal is not issued a visa because they are exempt from the visa requirement).  If the immediate family member or dependent of a NATO status holder is a permanent resident of the sending country, the number of entries, fees, and validity for the immediate family member/dependent is based on the reciprocity schedule of the NATO principal applicant.  If the immediate family member/dependent is not a permanent resident of the sending country, the number of entries, fees, and validity is based on the A-2 data provided in the reciprocity schedule of the immediate family member's/dependent’s country of nationality.

9 FAM 402.3-9  (U) Personal or Domestic Employees of Officials - A-3, C-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Visas

9 FAM 402.3-9(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

9 FAM 402.3-9(A)(1)  (U) Immigration and Nationality Act

(CT:VISA-485;   01-09-2018)

(U) INA 101(a)(15)(A)(iii) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(A)(iii)); INA 101(a)(15)(C) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(C)); INA 212(d)(8) (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(8)); INA 101(a)(15)(G)(v) (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(G)(v)).

9 FAM 402.3-9(A)(2)  (U) Code of Federal Regulations

(CT:VISA-362;   05-04-2017)

(U) 22 CFR 41.21; 22 CFR 41.22; 22 CFR 41.23; 22 CFR 41.24; 22 CFR 41.25.

9 FAM 402.3-9(A)(3)  (U) Public Law

(CT:VISA-853;   06-11-2019)

(U) Section 301 of the Visa Waiver Permanent Program Act (Public Law 106-396); Section 203 of the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (WWTVPRA) (Public Law 110-457); Section 123 of the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-425).

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)  (U) Basis for Classification

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(1)  (U) Applicants Entitled to A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 Visa Classification

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Eligibility Requirements:  If the applicant qualifies for the visa classification, you may issue an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa, respectively, to the personal employee of an applicant in the A-1 or A-2 category (A-3 visa), C-3 category (C-3 visa), G-1 through G-4 category (G-5 visa), or NATO-1 through NATO-6 category (NATO-7 visa).  To qualify for the A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa as a domestic employee the following requirements must be met:

(1)  (U) An A-3 or G-5 applicant must be pre-notified to the Office of the Chief of Protocol (Protocol) or the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN) and listed in The Office of Foreign Missions Information System (TOMIS) unless an exception in 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(2) paragraph e below applies;

(2)  (U) An applicant must have a written contract with the current or prospective employer that meets the specific requirements in 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(3); the applicant must understand the terms of the contract; the contract must be scanned into the NIV application record;

(3)  (U) The applicant will receive the minimum wage and working conditions will be accordance with U.S. labor laws (see 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(4) below); and,

(4)  (U) The applicant overcomes the burden of proof in demonstrating to you that they will perform a specific job as described in the contract and can perform such work, the applicant overcomes any presumptions of ineligibility, if applicable, and the applicant and the employer have entered a bona fide employer-employee relationship (see 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(5) below).

(5)  (U) The applicant must present a diplomatic note from the appropriate foreign government office, mission, international organization, or NATO authority that meets the requirements in 9 FAM 402.3-4(C), and the diplomatic note must be scanned into the NIV application record; 

(6)  (U) Conduct a personal interview with the applicant outside the presence of the employer or any recruitment agent; 

(7)  (U) Ensure that the applicant is aware of their rights as set out in the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (WWTVPRA) (Public Law 110-457) pamphlet, including that you confirm at the visa interview that the applicant has received, read, and understood the contents of the information pamphlet, and that you provide a copy of the pamphlet, and offer to answer any questions the applicant may have as needed (see 9 FAM 402.3-9(C) below); and,

(8)  (U) These applicants are not exempt from any visa ineligibility ground (see 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(6) below).

b. (U) Employer NIV or Status:  You may not issue a visa to a domestic employee under this provision unless the employer already is in A, G, or NATO NIV status in the United States, or has an A, C-3, G, or NATO visa and will be traveling with, or in advance of, the domestic employee to take up a new diplomatic assignment or otherwise engage in official duties appropriate on such A, C-3, G, or NATO visa.  You should link the applicant's case with the employer's visa record.   

c.  (U) Personal Employees of Permanent Residents Not Eligible:  You may not issue an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa to an applicant employed by an individual who has permanent resident status in the United States, as provided in INA 247(b) or in 22 CFR 40.203.  The applicant employee of a U.S. permanent resident must apply for an H-2B NIV or an appropriate IV to work for the employer in the United States.  See also 9 FAM 402.3-4(J)(7) above.

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(2)  (U) TOMIS Pre-Notification Required

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) TOMIS Pre-Notification Required For Most A-3 and G-5 Applicants:  Unless the applicant is covered by an exception in paragraph e, below, you may not issue an A-3 or G-5 visa to an applicant who is not pre-notified to Protocol or USUN (for domestic employees employed by personnel accredited to and/or employed by the UN).  The foreign mission or international organization must submit a pre-notification form to Protocol or to USUN via e-Gov for review.  You should direct all pre-notification questions to Protocol (DomesticWorkers@state.gov) or USUN (UNDomesticWorkers@state.gov), respectively.

b.

c.  (U) Immediate Family Members of Domestic Employees: 

(1)  (U) Immediate family members of domestic employees seeking a derivative A-3 or G-5 visa are rare and should be closely scrutinized.  In determining whether an immediate family member qualifies as a derivative, remember that immediate family members are not authorized to work in the United States, including in the home of the foreign government official, employee or IO employee. Accordingly, you must ensure that the wages earned by the domestic employee are sufficient to support any accompanying or following-to-join immediate family members of the domestic employee.  You should also ensure that the proposed place of residence of the domestic employee and any immediate family members in the United States are consistent with the place of employment.  Also consider whether the proposed place of residence, such as the home of the domestic worker's employer, places minor children at risk for potential exploitation, e.g., by requiring the child to engage in uncompensated work around the residence.  Except in cases specified in paragraph e, confirm that all immediate family members of the domestic employee accompanying or following-to-join the domestic employee are pre-notified to Protocol (or USUN) and, if not included in the domestic employee’s initial pre-notification request are separately pre-notified to Protocol (or USUN) before issuing visas to such immediate family members.  The immediate family members' names will be listed in TOMIS under the A-3 or G-5 principal's record once Protocol (or USUN) has received and accepted the immediate family member's pre-notification. 

(2)  (U) If the foreign mission or international organization separately notified Protocol or USUN of the immediate family member as a domestic employee of such mission member and the applicant independently qualifies as a domestic employee, you may issue the family member a visa in their own right. 

d. (U) Refusing Visas if Not in TOMIS:  If an A-3 or G-5 visa applicant is not listed in TOMIS as either “pre-notified” or “active”, refuse the case under INA 221(g) pending the individual’s inclusion in TOMIS (see exception to TOMIS requirement below in paragraph e).  You may not issue an A-3 or G-5 visa to an applicant who is required to be registered in TOMIS upon mere presentation of a diplomatic note.  You also may not issue B-1 visas to allow the domestic employee to travel on an “emergency” basis.  Check TOMIS periodically to see if the employee has been added. If the employer or applicant advises that a pre-notification request was submitted and it is not showing in TOMIS, contact Protocol (DomesticWorkers@state.gov) or USUN (UNDomesticWorkers@state.gov), respectively, copying CA/VO/DO/DL.

e. (U) Exception to TOMIS Pre-Notification Requirement:  A-3 and G-5 applicants accompanying an employer who is on a temporary assignment of less than 90 days are not required to be pre-notified and listed in TOMIS.  NATO-7 applicants are also not required to be listed in TOMIS.  However, if you receive an A-3 or G-5 application from a domestic employee who is not pre-notified in TOMIS and who is planning to work for 90 days or more for a foreign government official or employee (or IO employee) who has been accredited as an employee at a mission, request guidance from L/CA and CA/VO/DO/DL before issuing the visa. 

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(3)  (U) Contract Requirements

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) You may not issue or renew an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa unless the visa applicant has executed a contract with the employer or prospective employer and such contract includes each of the provisions described in paragraph (c) below.  In each case, an employee applying for an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa must present a copy of the employment contract, which must be in a language understood by the applicant and signed by both the applicant and the employer.  If the contract is not in English, an accurate English-language translation must be attached.  As appropriate, you should ask questions about the terms of the contract and the intended employment to confirm that the applicant understands the terms of the contract and is traveling for the stated purpose.  Scan the employment contract and, as applicable, an English translation of the contract, and attach the scanned document to the application record in NIV.

b. (U) Wilberforce Contract Requirements for A-3 and G-5 Applicants:  The WWTVPRA requires that a visa may not be issued unless there is an executed contract between the employer and employee and expressly provides that such contract must include:

(1)  (U) an agreement by the employer to abide by all Federal, State, and local laws in the United States;

(2)  (U) information on the frequency and form of payment, work duties, weekly work hours, holidays, sick days, and vacation days; and

(3)  (U) an agreement by the employer not to withhold the passport, employment contract, or other personal property of the employee.

(4)  (U) The Department requires additional contract terms.  Both the terms required by the WWTVPRA and the additional contract terms are set forth below as "Required Contract Terms".

c.  (U) Required Contract Terms:  The Department strongly encourages employers of A-3 and G-5 domestic employees to use the employment contract template developed by the Department and available at A3 and G-5 Employment Contract Template.  The employment contract template includes all mandatory contract terms.  Regardless of whether the contract template is used, the contract must contain the following provisions:

(1)  (U) Parties:  The contract must identify the parties to the contract. 

(a)  (U) The contract should provide the following information for the employer: name, rank/title, duty office, and residence address of the employer. 

(b)  (U) The contract should provide the following information for the employee: name, date of birth, and nationality.  

(c)  (U) The contract must also include:

(i)     (U) any information regarding the employee’s relationship to the employer,

(ii)    (U) whether the employee has previously worked for the employer, and

(iii)    (U) whether the employee has previously worked as a domestic worker. 

(d)  (U) The employee is not required to be unrelated to the employer or to have previously worked for the employer or as a domestic employee, but such information may be helpful in establishing qualification for the visa classification sought.

(2)  (U) General Provisions:  The contract must require, explicitly:

(a)  (U) that two identical copies of the contract will be signed by the parties, and each party will receive a copy of the contract;

(b)  (U) that any change to the contract must be in writing and signed by both parties; and

(c)  (U) that the employer must promptly send an updated copy of the contract to their foreign mission or international organization, which should share it with the Department. 

(3)  (U) Employer Obligations: The contract must include provisions addressing the following requirements: 

(a)  (U) The employer agrees to abide by all Federal, state, and local laws while in the United States.

(b)  (U) No possession of passport or other documents or personal property:  The employer agrees not to take or control the employee’s passport, visa, employment contract, Department of State registration card, if applicable, or any other document or personal property of the employee for any reason.

(c)  (U) No deduction or charge for recruitment fees:  The employer will not charge the employee any fees associated with the recruitment of the employee or deduct from the employee’s salary any amounts to cover such recruitment fees.

(d)  (U) Employer must pay for travel:  The employer will pay the costs of the employee’s travel from the employee’s home country or country of current residence to the United States at the beginning of employment without deducting costs from the employee’s salary or using any other means to recover such costs.

(e)  (U) The employer will pay the costs of the employee’s travel from the United States to the employee’s home country or country of residence at the end of employment (for any reason) without deducting costs from the employee’s salary or using any other means to recover such costs.

(f)   (U) The employer will pay for any other costs of travel required of the employee by the employer without deducting these costs from the employee’s salary or using any other means to recover the costs.

(g)  (U) Compliance with Department of State registration program and assistance with status extension:  The employer will comply with any registration requirements of the Department and submit through their foreign mission or international organization extensions of status for the employee with sufficient time to allow such requests to be processed before the expiration of the I-94.

(4)  (U) Employee Obligation to Comply with U.S. Immigration Law:

      The employee will depart the United States at the end of the employment, as required under U.S. immigration law.

(5)  (U) Description of Duties and Place of Employment: 

(a)  (U) The contract must describe the work to be performed (e.g., childcare, housekeeping, cooking, or gardening).

(b)  (U) Work for any other employer(s) prohibited:  The employee cannot work for another employer and the employer will not require any other employment beyond the terms of the contract.

(c)  (U) Number of domestic workers:  The contract should indicate the total number of domestic workers hired by the employer.

(d)  (U) The anticipated start date of employment.

(6)  (U) Hours of Work: 

(a)  (U) Number of work hours per week:  The contract must state the number of hours the employee will usually work per week, which must be at least 35 hours. 

(b)  (U) Days off each week:  The contract must indicate the employee’s day(s) off, which must be at least one full day off each week. 

(c)  (U) Work Outside of Normal Work Schedule:  The employee and employer may agree that the employee may, on occasion, be required to work a different schedule than the normal work schedule.  Regardless of the schedule worked, the employer must agree to pay the employee for all hours worked according to the contracted wage terms and in compliance with U.S. law.

(d)  (U) Normal Work Schedule: The contract must describe in detail the employee’s normal work week schedule.  The Department’s contract template includes a chart that may be helpful in describing the normal work schedule, including when the employee is expected to start and stop work and when the employee is permitted a break(s). 

(e)  (U) The contract must state that the employee will not be paid for sleeping time and other periods when the employee is free from all duties and when the employee can leave the property or remain on the property, without employment duties.

(f)   (U) The contract must state that if the employee is required to work during their scheduled sleeping or other free time, this period must be counted and compensated as hours worked.  Any hours that the employee is required to remain in the residence in case needed for work are working hours.

(g)  (U) Free to Leave Residence:  The contract must state that the employee is free to leave the employer’s residence during any non-work hours.

(7)  (U) Leave and Holiday:

(a)  (U) The contract must indicate the number of paid sick days the employee will receive during the calendar year.  If none, the contract must indicate so.

(b)  (U) The contract must indicate the number of vacation days the employee will receive during the calendar year.  If none, the contract must indicate so.

(c)  (U) The contract must indicate the number of paid holidays the employee will receive during the calendar year.  If none, the contract must indicate so.

(8)  (U) Wages, Taxes, Deductions, and Medical Insurance: 

(a)  (U) Rate of Pay:  The contract must state the regular hourly rate, which must be at least the greater of the minimum wage under U.S. federal, state, or local law.  For employers assigned to the United States for 90 days or more, the employer must agree to update the contract if the applicable minimum wage changes.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(4) below regarding minimum wages.

(b)  (U) When Paid:  The contract must state whether the employee will be paid weekly or every two weeks. 

(c)  (U) Overtime: The contract must state the rate the employer will pay the employee per hour for all hours that are overtime hours under U.S. federal, state, or local law.

(d)  (U) Opening of Bank Account:  If the employer will be in the United States for 90 days or more, the employee must agree to open a bank account in the United States in the employee’s name only within the first 30 days of arrival to the United States and provide proof of such bank account to the Department.  The employer must agree to assist with setting up this account as needed.

(e)  (U) Method of Payment:  If the employer will be in the United States for 90 days or more, the contract must state that after the first 30 days of employment, the employer will pay all wages by check or electronic transfer to the employee’s bank account. 

(f)   (U) Requirement to Provide Pay slip:  The employer must agree to provide the employee with a pay slip with the pay, noting the hourly wage, overtime wage, the number of hours worked in the pay period and, as appropriate, the allowable deductions to fulfill tax and social security obligations.

(g)  (U) Deductions:  The contract must state that the employer agrees that no money will be taken out of the employee’s salary except as required by law (e.g., tax and social security obligations, where applicable).

(h)  (U) Room and Board:  The contract must indicate whether the employee will/will not live at the employer’s residence (if the employer has a residence in the United States).  If the employee will live at the employer’s residence, the employer must agree to provide free room and board in addition to their salary and must agree, at a minimum, to ensure that the employee has adequate and reasonable accommodations provided to them, including a private bed and access to a bathroom, kitchen facilities, and proper food storage. 

(i)   (U) Tax Obligations:  The parties must agree to follow all relevant tax and social security obligations. 

(j)   (U) The contract must indicate whether the employer will provide/will not provide the employee with medical insurance. 

(9)  (U) Anti-Harassment: 

(a)  (U) The contract must state that the employee has the right to a workplace that is free from intimidation, harassment, and abuse of any kind, and has the right to leave employment if intimidated, harassed, or abused.

(b)  (U) The contract must state that the employer must not prohibit the employee from reporting intimidation, harassment, or abuse and must not retaliate in any way against the employee for enforcing their legal rights.

(10) (U) Resignation and Termination: 

(a)  (U) For employers who are assigned to a foreign mission or international organization for 90 days or more, the employer must agree to promptly notify the Department, through the mission, of the resignation or termination of the employee.

(b)  (U) The contract should include a provision that the employer or the employee may terminate the contract within a specified period, or the employer may give the employee the equivalent weeks of pay instead of notice to terminate the contract.

(c)  (U) The employer must agree to pay all salary owed to the employee at the time of termination.

(11) (U) Record Keeping Requirements:

(a)  (U) The contract must state that the employer will keep an employment file and must agree, at a minimum, to include the following information and documents:

·         employee’s full name and, if applicable, social security number;

·         employee’s home address;

·         hours worked each workday and total hours worked each work week;

·         total wages paid each week to the employee, including the amount of any overtime paid; and,

·         copies of all employment contracts.

(b)  (U) The contract must state that the employer will keep all employment records for three years after the termination of the employee’s employment.

(c)  (U) The contract must state that the employer will maintain the required records and understands that the Department reserves the right to request proof of payment when there are any questions regarding the proper compensation of a domestic employee.

(12) (U) Other Terms Agreed to by the Employer and Employee or Required by State or Local Law: 

(a)  (U) The contract may include additional agreed-upon terms of employment, but those terms must comply with applicable U.S. Federal, State, and local law as well as Department policy.

(b)  (U) The contract may not require binding arbitration to resolve disputes under the employment contract.

d. (U) Noncompliant Contracts and Refusals:  You usually refuse cases under INA 221(g) to allow the applicant an opportunity to address a contract-related deficiency, for example, where the applicant does not submit a contract, one of the above requirements in paragraph c is missing from the contract, or one of the provisions in the contract is not compliant with the minimum terms as stated above, e.g., the contract does not guarantee at least the minimum wage and working conditions that are compliant with U.S. labor laws or the applicant is stating that they are paid a wage other than that presented in the contract.  Alternatively, if you have reason to believe the applicant is unable or unwilling to address a contract-related deficiency, you may refuse the case under INA 214(b) because the applicant has not shown entitlement to A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 nonimmigrant status.  For questions about wage standards or other contract requirements, contact your L/CA portfolio holder and CA/VO/DO/DL for assistance.

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(4)  Minimum Wage Requirements

(CT:VISA-3000;   11-12-2024)

a. (U) All A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 domestic employees must be paid the greater of the minimum wage under U.S. Federal, state, or local law. 

b. (U) The above chart only includes state and local areas where domestic workers registered with the Department most commonly reside.  State minimum wages can be found on the DOL's Minimum Wage Laws page, or you can check with L/CA, CA/VO/DO/DL, S/CPR/DA or your VO/F desk officer. 

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(5)  (U) Burden of Proof, Presumption of Ineligibility, and Other Considerations

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Burden of Proof:  In accordance with INA 291, the burden of proof for A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa eligibility is on the applicant.  Assess the credibility of the applicant and the evidence submitted to determine qualification for an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa.  The applicant must demonstrate to your satisfaction that they will credibly engage in A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 activity under the contractual agreement (generally domestic or household work but can also include services as a personal employee) and thereby maintain lawful status while in the United States. 

b. (U) Applicant will perform a specific job described in the contract and can perform the work required:  To benefit from A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 status, the applicant must be coming to the United States to perform a specific job as described in the employment contract, and must be capable of doing so, regardless of whether the applicant has ever performed such a job in the past.  For example, an applicant with a degree in computer science who is coming to work as a domestic employee may be issued an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa if they clearly have the intent and ability to perform the job.  However, if you believe that the applicant is presented as a domestic employee for an employer in A, G, or NATO status, but will pursue other work, then the A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa should be denied under INA 214(b).  You should also determine whether such applicant is ineligible under INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i) for misrepresenting themself as a domestic employee.  Similarly, an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa applicant who has recently had a period of unlawful presence in the United States, or who may have previously sought another visa and was refused under INA 214(b), must be scrutinized to determine whether they intend to take up the stated employment.  However, if the previous period of unlawful presence is too short to render the applicant ineligible under INA 212(a)(9)(B) or (9)(C) or a prior 214(b) refusal exists, it is not a basis to refuse the current A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa application in which the applicant otherwise qualifies for the visa, and you believe the applicant plans to take up the stated employment.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(6) below regarding applicable ineligibilities.

c.  (U) Presumption that Applicant is Not Eligible; Employer’s Ability to Pay/Comply with Working Conditions: 

(1)  (U) Do not issue a visa unless you have reason to believe the employer will comply with all requirements relating to wages and working conditions.  Assume that the applicant is not eligible if the employer is not the principal officer or deputy principal officer or does not carry the diplomatic rank of minister or higher, due to concerns about the employer's ability to compensate the applicant as required under U.S. law.  To rebut this presumption, the employer or the employee may provide additional information to demonstrate that the employer has sufficient funds to comply with minimum wage requirements as reflected in the contract.  The sending government or international organization may also be able to provide you with general information as to how their organization compensates its employees based on rank or position.  Deny the visa under INA 214(b) if you are not convinced the employer can in fact meet the terms of the contract.  In assessing the sufficiency of the employer's funds, consider the number of current or proposed employees and whether the employer can pay the applicant. 

(2)  (U) IO officers and employees (G-4 visa holders) rarely hold the rank of minister or higher and therefore their compensation is unlikely to be sufficient to cover the cost of a personal employee.  Accordingly, you must determine that the employer has sufficient funds to provide the required minimum wages and work conditions to the G-5 visa applicant to issue the visa.

d. Unavailable

e. (U) True Employer-Employee Relationship and Employing Family Members: You may not issue a visa unless you are satisfied that the visa applicant and the prospective employer are entering into a true employer-employee relationship for purposes of carrying out the duties set out in the contract in accordance with the terms of that contract.  Facts to consider include:

(1)  (U) Whether the applicant’s background, education skills, and employment history are consistent with the work described in the contract; and

(2)  (U) Whether the prospective employer and employee have a personal or familial relationship that might suggest they do not intend to enter a bona fide employee-employer relationship.  Familial relationship should be indicated in the contract and duly scrutinized.   

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(6)  (U) Applicable Ineligibilities; Refusals and Advisory Opinions

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) Applicants for A-3, C-3 (personal or domestic employees only), G-5, or NATO-7 visas are subject to all INA visa ineligibilities, including INA 214(b).  An A-3, C-3 (only personal or domestic employees), G-5, and NATO-7 visa applicant must establish that they qualify for the visa and must demonstrate that they:

(1)  (U) Are not intending immigrants;

(2)  (U) Have a residence abroad they do not intend to abandon; and

(3)  (U) Intend to depart from the United States upon completion of the approved activities.

b. (U) General rules for examining residence abroad are outlined in 9 FAM 401.1-3(E), Residence Abroad Defined.  A-3, C-3 (only personal or domestic employees), G-5, and NATO-7 visa applicants commonly will not possess ties of property or family in the country in which they are working when applying for the visa.  Often the applicant has accompanied the employer on assignment and is not applying where they normally reside.    In that case, the applicant need not demonstrate an intention to return to the country of initial visa application or where they normally reside.  Given that these personal employees may stay in the United States for a longer period than most other nonimmigrant visitors, the residence abroad requirement should not focus too heavily on the usual “ties”.  You may issue the visa if you are satisfied during the visa application that the applicant possesses the present intent to depart the United States at the conclusion of their approved activities and you are satisfied the applicant otherwise is qualified for the visa. 

c.  (U) Before issuing an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa to an immediate family member of a domestic employee, you must be satisfied that the relationship between the domestic employee and the applicant exists and that the applicant can be expected to depart from the United States upon the termination of the domestic employee’s duties or status, as appropriate.  You must also be satisfied that such immediate family member will not seek unlawful employment while in the United States.  See 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(2) above. 

d. (U) You are not required to obtain an AO before refusing an A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa application under INA 214(b) in cases where you believe the applicant does not intend to take up the position, or where a satisfactory contract is not provided, either initially or upon your request for an amended contract.  You should not hesitate to seek advice in questions of eligibility.   

e. (U) Mandatory AO for Principal Applicants Under the Age of 18:  You must obtain an AO from L/CA before issuing an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visa to a domestic employee principal applicant under the age of 18.  The AO should include the date the applicant expects to begin working as a domestic employee in the United States, where the applicant will be performing such duties (state, city, and county if possible) and a description of the duties as described in the contract to allow L/CA to review local labor laws. 

f.  (U) You should report to the Department any denials in the A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 category that are likely to prompt inquiries or complaints from the employer’s host government or international organization. 

g. (U) Additionally, if a A-3, C-3, G-5, or NATO-7 application raises fraud concerns, refer the case to CA/VO/DO/DL, L/CA, and CA/FPP.

9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(7)  (U) Visa Validity for A-3, C-3, G-5, and NATO-7 Visas

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) You should usually issue A-3, G-5, and NATO-7 visas for the maximum period established by the Reciprocity Schedule of the country concerned, which is usually 24 months; however, the validity may not exceed the validity of the relevant visa held by the employer, who must have an A-1 or A-2 (for A-3 employees), G-1 through G-4 (for G-5 employees), or NATO-1 through NATO-6 visa (for NATO-7 employees) visa. Similarly, you usually should issue C-3 visas to domestic employees of a foreign government official transiting the U.S. for official business (also holding a C-3 visa) for the maximum validity as indicated in the Reciprocity Schedule, except that the visa may not exceed the validity of the visa held by the C-3 employer. 

9 FAM 402.3-9(C)  (U) William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (WWTVPRA) Requirements

9 FAM 402.3-9(C)(1)  (U) Information Pamphlet on Legal Rights of A-3, G-5, NATO-7, H, J, and Domestic Employees

(CT:VISA-1852;   10-17-2023)

a. (U) The WWTVPRA requires the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of Labor, to develop and distribute an information pamphlet and video on legal rights and available resources to applicants applying for A-3, G-5, H, or J visas, as well as to any personal or domestic employee (such as B-1 domestic or NATO-7) who is accompanying or following to join an employer.  8 U.S.C. 1375b.  As a matter of policy, this information must also be provided to TN and certain interview waiver applicants in the H and J classifications.

b. (U) The contents of the information pamphlet, “Know Your Rights,” include a discussion of procedural issues, legal rights, and available legal resources concerning items such as:

(1)  (U) The NIV application process, including information about the portability of employment;

(2)  (U) The legal rights of employment-based or education-based NIV holders under Federal immigration, labor, and employment laws;

(3)  (U) The illegality of slavery, peonage, trafficking in persons, sexual assault, extortion, blackmail, and worker exploitation in the United States;

(4)  (U) The legal rights of immigrant victims of trafficking in persons and worker exploitation, including:

(a)  (U) The right of access to immigrant and labor rights groups;

(b)  (U) The right to seek redress in United States courts;

(c)  (U) The right to report abuse without retaliation;

(d)  (U) The right of the nonimmigrant not to relinquish possession of their passport to the employer;

(e)  (U) The requirement for an employment contract between the employer and the nonimmigrant; and

(f)   (U) An explanation of the rights and protections included in the mandatory employment contract.

(5)  (U) Information about services for victims of trafficking in persons and worker exploitation, including:

(a)  (U) Anti-trafficking in persons telephone hotlines operated by the Federal Government;

(b)  (U) The National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline; and

(c)  (U) A general description of the types of victims’ services available for individuals subject to trafficking in persons or worker exploitation.

c.  (U) The pamphlet has been translated into certain foreign languages, based on the languages spoken by the greatest concentration of employment-based and education-based NIV applicants.  The pamphlet is posted on the Department's travel information Web site and must be posted, in English and any relevant local language that the pamphlet has been translated into, on the Web site of every consular section.  In addition to the physical pamphlet, the "Know Your Rights" pamphlet is available in the form of a Quick Response (QR) code, which permits applicants to access an online version of the information pamphlet by scanning the code with their smartphone camera. The QR code is not intended to replace the physical pamphlet, but instead, serves as an additional method of distribution and is designed to maximize the methods by which applicants receive this important information. 

9 FAM 402.3-9(C)(2)  (U) Your Responsibilities under the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Act Reauthorization (WWTVPRA)

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) The WWTVPRA requires you to ensure that applicants for A-3, G-5, NATO-7, H, or J visas or a personal or domestic employee accompanying or following to join an employer (such as B-1 domestic), are made aware of their legal rights under Federal immigration, labor, and employment laws.  This includes information on the illegality of slavery, peonage, trafficking in persons, sexual assault, extortion, blackmail, and worker exploitation in the United States.  8 U.S.C. 1375b(e). 

During the NIV interview: 

(1)  (U) Ask applicants if they prefer the QR code, the physical pamphlet, or both, confirm that the applicant has received, read, and understood the information prepared by the Department  and offer to answer any questions the applicant may have regarding its contents; or

(2)  (U) If the applicant has not received, read, or understood the contents of the pamphlet, provide the information to the applicant in the manner preferred (QR code, pamphlet, or both) and verbally disclose to them the contents using a language that the applicant understands.  Offer to answer any questions that the applicant may have about its contents as well as legal rights and victim services in the United States.  Such a disclosure should include:

(a)  (U) The legal rights of employment-based nonimmigrants under Federal immigration, labor, and employment laws;

(b)  (U) The illegality of slavery, peonage, trafficking in persons, sexual assault, extortion, blackmail, and worker exploitation in the United States;

(c)  (U) The legal rights of nonimmigrant victims of trafficking in persons, worker exploitation, and other related crimes, including:

(i)     (U) The right of access to immigrant and labor rights groups;

(ii)    (U) The right to seek redress in United States courts; and

(iii)    (U) The right to report abuse without retaliation; and

(d)  (U) The availability of services for victims of human trafficking and worker exploitation in the United States, including victim services complaint hotlines.

b. (U) Add a mandatory case note in the NIV system stating that the QR code and/or pamphlet was provided, and that the applicant indicated they understood its contents.

c.  (U) You are also required to review the contents of the mandatory employment contract, as described in 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(3), with the applicant.

d. (U) All applicants for A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 visas must be interviewed, regardless of whether the applicant has been issued a previous visa in the same classification to work for the same employer.  Conduct the interview of an A-3, G-5, or NATO-7 applicant outside the presence of the employer or recruitment agent.

e. (U) No interview is required when the A-3, G-5 or NATO-7 applicant applies to extend their stay (I-94) domestically to continue working for the same employer.  However, the employee must provide a copy of the updated contract to the Department (CA/VO/DO/DL) that meets the requirements in 9 FAM 402.3-9(B)(3) paragraph c.

9 FAM 402.3-9(C)(3)  (U) Suspension of Processing of A-3 and G-5 Applications from Certain Foreign Missions and International Organizations

(CT:VISA-1290;   05-26-2021)

a. (U) The Secretary of State shall suspend, for a period of at least one year, the issuance of A-3 visas or G-5 visas to applicants seeking to work for officials of a diplomatic mission or an international organization, if "there is an unpaid default or final civil judgement directly or indirectly related to human trafficking against the employer or a family member assigned to the embassy, or the diplomatic mission or international organization hosting the employer or family member has not responded affirmatively to a request to waive immunity within 6 weeks of the request in a case brought by the United States Government and the country that accredited the employer or family member, or in the case of international organizations, the country of citizenship, has not initiated prosecution against the employer or family member".  See 8 U.S.C. 1375c, as updated by the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2018.

b. (U) The Secretary may suspend the application of the limitation under paragraph (a) if the Secretary determines and reports to the appropriate Congressional committees that a mechanism is in place to ensure that such abuse or exploitation does not reoccur with respect to any applicant employed by an employee of such mission or institution.

c.  (U) All visa processing posts will be advised when the Secretary has determined that A-3 or G-5 visa processing must be suspended for a specific diplomatic mission or international organization.

9 FAM 402.3-10  (U) nonimmigrant Visa Types: Regular, Diplomatic and Official

9 FAM 402.3-10(A)  (U) Statutory and Regulatory Authority

(CT:VISA-78;   03-04-2016)

(U) 22 CFR 41.26; 22 CFR 41.27.

9 FAM 402.3-10(B)  (U) Visa Type - In General

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) Visa type (diplomatic, official, and regular) is not the same as visa classification (e.g., A-1, A-2, G-1, G-4, etc.).  While purpose of travel is relevant for determining visa classification (except for heads of state or heads of government and their immediate family members who are always classifiable A-1), an applicant's purpose of travel is irrelevant for determining qualification for a diplomatic type or official type visa.  Instead, determine that an applicant holds an authorized rank/position (or qualifies as immediate family of an applicant who holds an authorized rank/position).  For diplomatic type visa issuance, also ensure that the applicant possesses a diplomatic passport as defined at 22 CFR 41.26(a)(1) or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport as defined at 22 CFR 41.26(a)(3). You should issue a diplomatic type visa (see 9 FAM 402.3-10(C) below) rather than an official type visa (see 9 FAM 402.3-10(D) below) when possible. 

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)  (U) Diplomatic Type Visas

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) A diplomatic type visa is depicted on the visa foil under "Visa Type" with the letter "D", followed by the visa classification.  Regardless of visa classification an applicant would qualify for a diplomatic type visa if they possess a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport and is within one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.26(c).

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(1)  (U) Qualifying for a Diplomatic Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.26

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) To qualify for a diplomatic type visa (regardless of visa classification) under this section of the regulation, an applicant must be in possession of a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport and be in one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.26(c).  Thus, possession of a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport, is not by itself sufficient to qualify for a diplomatic type visa under 22 CFR 41.26(c).  However, an applicant must possess a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport to qualify for a diplomatic type visa under 22 CFR 41.26(c).

b. (U) Diplomatic Passport:  Diplomatic passport is defined in 22 CFR 41.26(a)(1) as “a national passport bearing that title and issued by a competent authority of a foreign government.” 

c.  (U) Equivalent of a Diplomatic Passport:  Equivalent of a diplomatic passport is defined in 22 CFR 41.26(a)(3) as a passport that “(i) is issued by a competent authority that does not issue diplomatic passports and (ii) has been designated by the Secretary as the equivalent of a diplomatic passport.”  This includes non-national passports issued by entities other than a foreign government which indicate the holder’s status as an official, officer, or employee of the issuing entity.  

(1)  (U) The red cover United Nations Laissez-Passer (UNLP) and the European Union Laissez-Passer have been designated by the Secretary of State as the equivalent of a diplomatic passport.  Applicants presenting a [red cover] UNLP and falling within one of the categories listed in paragraph f below may be issued a diplomatic type G-4 visa.  Applicants presenting an EULP and holding a position similar to one of those listed in paragraph e below may be issued diplomatic type A-1, A-2, and G-3 visas.  See also 9 FAM 402.3-4(C) paragraph f.

(2)  (U) The Palestinian Authority VIP (PA VIP) passport red cover has  been designated by the Secretary of State as “equivalent to a diplomatic passport.” Applicants presenting a PA VIP passport and holding a position similar to one of those listed in paragraph e below may be issued diplomatic type visa.

(3)  (U) The European Union Laissez-Passer (EULP) travel document has been designated by the Secretary of State as “equivalent to a diplomatic passport.” Applicants presenting a EULP and holding a position similar to one of those listed in paragraph e below in one or more of the official EU institutions such as the European Parliament, European Council, Council of the European Union, European Commission, Court of Justice of the European Union, European Central Bank, European Court of Auditors, European External Action Service, etc., may be issued a diplomatic type visa in the EULP.

d. (U) Categories Eligible to Receive Diplomatic Type Visas:  In addition to possession of a diplomatic passport or equivalent of a diplomatic passport, an applicant must also be within one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.26(c). 

e. (U) Qualifying for a Diplomatic Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.26(c)(1):  Most diplomatic type visas are issued pursuant to 22 CFR 41.26(c)(1), which includes the following categories:  

(i) Heads of states and their alternates;

(ii) Members of a reigning royal family;

(iii) Governors-general, governors, high commissioners, and similar high    administrative or executive officers of territorial unit, and their alternates;

(iv) Cabinet ministers and their assistants holding executive or administrative positions not inferior to that of the head of a departmental division, and their alternates;

(v) Presiding officers of chambers of national legislative bodies;

(vi) Justices of the highest national court of a foreign country;

(vii) Ambassadors, public ministers, other officers of the diplomatic service and consular officers of career;

(viii) Military officers holding a rank not inferior to that of a brigadier general in the United States Army or Air Force and Naval officers holding a rank not inferior to that of a rear admiral in the United States Navy;

(ix) Military, naval, air and other attaché and assistant attaché assigned to a foreign diplomatic mission;

(x) Officers of foreign-government delegations to international organizations so designated by Executive Order;

(xi) Officers of foreign-government delegations to, and officers of, international bodies of an official nature, other than international organizations so designated by Executive Order;

(xii) Officers of a foreign government proceeding to the United States on a temporary basis or through the United States in the performance of their official duties;

(xiii) Officers of foreign-government delegations proceeding to or from a specific international conference of an official nature;

(xiv) Members of the immediate family of a principal alien who is within one of the classes described in paragraphs (c)(1)(i) through (c)(1)(xi), of this section;

(xv) Members of the immediate family accompanying or following to join the principal alien who is within one of the classes described in paragraphs (c)(1)(xii) and (c)(1)(xiii) of this section;

(xvi) Diplomatic couriers proceeding to or through the United States in the performance of their official duties.

f.  (U) Qualifying for a Diplomatic Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.26(c)(2):  Applicants classifiable G-4, if otherwise qualified, are eligible to receive a diplomatic type G-4 visa if accompanying one of the specific United Nations officers listed in 22 CFR 41.26(c)(2), which includes the following:

(i) The Secretary General of the United Nations;

(ii) An Under Secretary General of the United Nations;

(iii) An Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations;

(iv) The Administrator or the Deputy Administrator of the United Nations Development Program;

(v) An Assistant Administrator of the United Nations Development Program;

(vi) The Executive Director of the:

          (A) United Nations Children's Fund;

          (B) United Nations Institute for Training and Research;

          (C) United Nations Industrial Development Organization;

(vii) The Executive Secretary of the:

          (A) United Nations Economic Commission for Africa;

          (B) United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East;

          (C) United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America;

          (D) United Nations Economic Commission for Europe;

(viii) The Secretary General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development;

(ix) The Director General of the Latin American Institute for Economic and Social Planning;

(x) The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees;

(xi) The United Nations Commissioner for Technical Cooperation;

(xii) The Commissioner General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East;

(xiii) Members of the immediate family of a principal alien who is within one of the classes described in paragraphs (c)(2)(i) through (c)(2)(xii) of this section.

g. (U) Qualifying for a Diplomatic Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.26(c)(3):  22 CFR 41.26(c)(3) permits the Department, the Chief of a U.S. Diplomatic Mission, the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), the Counselor for Consular Affairs or the principal officer of a consular post not under the jurisdiction of a diplomatic mission to authorize the issuance of a diplomatic type visa to any individual applicant or a class of applicants.  In practice, this authority is used very rarely, in exceptional cases.  Consult with CA/VO/DO/DL and CA/VO/F before exercising their authority under this section of the regulation.

h. (U) The purpose of travel, which usually determines visa classification (A, G, B-1/B-2, etc.), is irrelevant for purposes of qualifying for a diplomatic type visa under 22 CFR 41.26(c).  For example, if the presiding officer of national legislature applied for an NIV to travel to the United States for pleasure using a diplomatic passport or the equivalent category (see 22 CFR 41.26(c)(1)(v)), they would be issued a diplomatic type B-2 (or B-1/B-2) visa if otherwise qualified.  However, if any other member of a national legislature applied under the same circumstances, they would be issued an official type, not diplomatic type, B-2 (or B-1/B-2) visa if otherwise qualified (see 9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(1) below for official type visas).

i.  (U) A diplomatic note is not required for an applicant to be issued a diplomatic type visa.

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(2)  (U) Courtesies Attached to Diplomatic Type Visa

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

a. (U) Designating a visa as a diplomatic type visa does not accord diplomatic privileges and immunities to the visa holder.  Rather, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and other international agreements are the basis for assessing whether a visa holder enjoys diplomatic privileges and immunities.  While neither visa classification nor visa type determines eligibility for privileges and immunities, in general, individuals falling within the A, C-3, G, and NATO classifications enjoy some level of privileges, exemptions and immunities, and any such privileges and immunities would attach regardless of whether the individual were issued a diplomatic type, official type or regular type visa.

b. (U) You should process applications for diplomatic type visas as quickly as possible.  In addition to the exemption from MRV fees (see 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(4) below), there is also a waiver of personal appearance that you, at your discretion, may grant to diplomatic type visa applicants (see 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(5) below).  Waiver of personal appearance does not mean that the applicant is also exempt from fingerprint requirements.  The applicant must qualify for fingerprint exemption on some other basis (see 9 FAM 303.7-4(B)).

c.  (U) At the POE, the holder of a diplomatic type visa may receive expeditious examination but otherwise must qualify for admission like other nonimmigrants.

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(3)  (U) Diplomatic Relations Required for Diplomatic Type Visa

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) Do not issue a diplomatic type visa to any national of a country whose government does not have diplomatic relations with the United States unless the Department has provided authorization in reply to a request for an AO from L/CA.  As an authorized exception to this general rule, you may issue diplomatic type visas to applicants who possess a passport that has been designated as equivalent to a diplomatic passport as listed at 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(1).

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(4)  (U) Exemption from MRV Fees

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

a. (U) In accordance with 22 CFR 22.1, all qualifying applicants for diplomatic type visas are exempt from the application (MRV) fee, regardless of visa classification.  This includes applications submitted for either official or non-official travel.  The word “qualifying” refers to an applicant who, if issued a visa, would receive a diplomatic type visa as defined in 22 CFR 41.26.  In this context, the word “qualifying” is not related to whether the visa is issued or refused.  Thus, if, for example, a career foreign diplomat applied for a visa using a diplomatic passport or the equivalent (which would qualify them for a diplomatic type visa under 22 CFR 41.26(c)(1)(vii)) to travel to the United States for pleasure (B visa classification), and you determine the applicant ineligible for a visa under, say, INA 214(b), the applicant would nevertheless be exempt from paying the MRV fee.  If the visa were issued, it would be a diplomatic type B visa, and the applicant would be exempt from paying the MRV fee.

b. (U) In addition to the MRV fee exemption based on visa type in the preceding paragraph, there are also MRV fee exemptions based on visa classification.  See 9 FAM 402.3-4(F) above.

c. (U) Applicants for diplomatic type visas are not exempt from reciprocity fees based solely on their qualification for a diplomatic type visa.  You should look at the visa classification itself and the applicant's country of nationality to determine whether a visa reciprocity fee applies.

9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(5)  (U) Exemption from Personal Appearance

(CT:VISA-1626;   09-08-2022)

(U) At your discretion, you may waive personal appearance for a diplomatic type visa applicant.  See 9 FAM 403.5-4(A).  Waiver of personal appearance does not mean that the applicant is exempt from fingerprint requirements.  The applicant must qualify for fingerprint exemption on some other basis.  See 9 FAM 303.7-4(B).

9 FAM 402.3-10(D)  (U) Official Type Visas

(CT:VISA-1838;   09-26-2023)

(U) An official type visa is depicted on the visa foil under “Visa Type” with the letter “O”, followed by the visa classification.  Regardless of visa classification, an otherwise eligible applicant would qualify for an official type visa if within one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.27(c).  While the applicant is not required to have a diplomatic, official, service, or other passport which confirms their position or status with a foreign government or international organization to qualify for an official type visa, many applicants will have a passport reflecting their position with a foreign government or international organization when also applying for an A, C-3, G, or NATO visa and you should consider the lack of such passport when assessing the applicant’s eligibility for the visa classification sought.  An applicant may still qualify for an official type visa of any visa classification if you can otherwise confirm the applicant is within one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.27(c).  However, as noted in 9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(3) below, a diplomatic or official passport is required for the applicant to qualify for interview waiver.

9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(1)  (U) Qualifying for an Official Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.27

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

a. (U) To qualify for an official type visa (regardless of visa classification) under this section of the regulation, an applicant must be in one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.27(c), which includes, but is not limited to, an official who would normally qualify for a diplomatic type visa under 22 CFR 41.26(c) or an official in the A or G (other than G-3) visa classification, but cannot be issued a diplomatic type visa because they do not possess a diplomatic passport or the equivalent of a diplomatic passport as required by 22 CFR 41.26 and 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(1) above. 

(1)  (U) Applicants presenting the PA VIP passport the applicant must hold a position that is similar in rank to those listed at 41.27 (c)to qualify for an official type visa.

(2)  (U) Applicants presenting a EULP and holding a position similar to one of those listed at 22 CFR 41.27 (c) below in one or more of the official EU institutions such as the European Parliament, European Council, Council of the European Union, European Commission, Court of Justice of the European Union, European Central Bank, European Court of Auditors, European External Action Service, etc., may be issued an official type visa in the EULP.

b. (U) Categories Eligible to Receive Official Type Visas: An applicant must be within one of the categories listed in 22 CFR 41.27(c). 

c.  (U) Qualifying for an Official Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.27(c)(1):  An applicant who is not eligible for a diplomatic type visa, may qualify for an official type visa (regardless of visa classification) if the applicant is within one of the following categories:

(i) Aliens within a category described in 22 CFR 41.26(c)(1) who are ineligible to receive a diplomatic visa because they are not in possession of a diplomatic passport or its equivalent;

(ii) Aliens classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(A)(i) or (ii);

(iii) Aliens who are classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(G)(i), (ii), or (iv);

(iv) Aliens who are classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(G)(iii) as representatives of a foreign government traveling to an international organization so designated by Executive Order, where such foreign government is not a member of the international organization;

(v) Aliens classifiable under INA 101(a)(15)(C) as nonimmigrants described in INA 212(d)(8);

(vi) Members and members-elect of national legislative bodies;

(vii) Justices of the lesser national and the highest state courts of a foreign country;

(viii) Officers and employees of national legislative bodies proceeding to or through the United States in the performance of their official duties;

(ix) Administrative, service, and similar employees attached to foreign-government delegations to, and employees of, international bodies of an official nature, other than international organizations so designated by Executive Order, proceeding to or through the United States in the performance of their official duties;

(x) Administrative, service, and similar employees of a foreign government proceeding to the United States on temporary duty or through the United States on a temporary basis in the performance of their official duties;

(xi) Administrative, service, and similar employees attached to foreign-government delegations proceeding to or from a specific international conference of an official nature;

(xii) Officers and employees of foreign governments recognized de jure by the United States who are stationed in foreign contiguous territories or adjacent islands;

(xiii) Members of the immediate family when accompanying or following to join a principal alien who is within one of the classes referred to or described in paragraphs (c)(1)(i) through (c)(1)(xii) of this section.

d. (U) Qualifying for an Official Type Visa Under 22 CFR 41.27(c)(2):  22 CFR 41.27(c)(2) permits the Department, the Chief of a U.S. Diplomatic Mission, the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), the Counselor for Consular Affairs or the principal officer of a consular post not under the jurisdiction of a diplomatic mission to authorize the issuance of an official type visa to any individual applicant or a class of applicants if the applicant does not qualify for a diplomatic type visa.  In practice, this authority is used very rarely, in exceptional cases.  Officers are strongly encouraged to consult CA/VO/DO/DL and CA/VO/F before exercising their authority under this section of the regulation.

e. (U) For issuance of A or G visa classifications, you may place an official type A or G visa in an official passport or a regular passport.  For example, if a member of the national legislature of a country that has diplomatic relations with the United States is traveling to the United States on official business, but only possesses an official or regular passport the member could be issued an A-2 official type visa.

f.  (U) As with diplomatic type visas, submit visa cases of nationals of countries not having diplomatic relations with the United States to the Department.  See 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(3) above.

9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(2)  (U) No Exemption from Fees

(CT:VISA-2070;   09-17-2024)

(U) The exemption from MRV fees for diplomatic type visas in 9 FAM 402.3-10(C)(4) above does not apply to official type visas, unless they qualify for a fee exemption on some other basis, such as receiving an A, G, or NATO visa.  See 22 CFR 22.1, 22 CFR 41.107(C), and 9 FAM 402.3-4(F).  Applicants for official type visas are also not exempt from reciprocity fees based solely on their qualification for an official type visa.  Look at the visa classification itself and the applicant's country of nationality to determine whether a reciprocity fee applies. 

9 FAM 402.3-10(D)(3)  (U) Exemption from Personal Appearance Only in Cases Where Applicant Is Applying with Diplomatic or Official Passport

(CT:VISA-1681;   12-30-2022)

(U) At your discretion, personal appearance may be waived for an official type visa applicant only in cases where the applicant is applying with their diplomatic, equivalent of a diplomatic, or official passport and the visa will be placed in such passport.  See 9 FAM 403.5-4(A).  Waiver of personal appearance does not mean that the applicant is exempt from fingerprint requirements.  The applicant must qualify for fingerprint exemption on some other basis, see 9 FAM 303.7-4(B).

 

UNCLASSIFIED (U)