Diplomats and Foreign Government Officials
A Visas
Diplomatic visas are used by diplomats and other government officials for travel to the United States. With the exception of a Head of State or Government who qualifies for an A visa regardless of the purpose of his or her visit to the United States, the type of visa required by a diplomat or other government official depends upon their purpose of travel to the United States.
Foreign officials who are traveling to the United States on official business must obtain an A or G visa prior to their entry. They cannot travel on tourist’s visas, or visa free under the Visa Waiver Program.
Qualified A or G visa applicants traveling to the United States for assignments of less than 90 days will be issued visas annotated "TDY" (temporary duty).
Local Government and European Union Officials
Local government officials representing their state, province, or other local political entity do not qualify for A visa status; they require a B visa. However, European Union (EU) officials, including members of the EU parliament and those attached to the Court of Justice although not members of a foreign government per se, are eligible to receive A or G visas if traveling to the United States on EU business.
How to Apply- Required Documentation
A completed visa application form DS-156 signed and completed is required for each person traveling, even children and babies listed in parents' passports. The DS-156 must be the March 2006 date, electronic "e-form application" and must be completed online. Select Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form, DS-156 to access the electronic version of the DS-156.
In addition to the DS-156, the applicant is required to provide:
(The diplomatic note is written confirmation by the sending government of the applicant’s status). The Diplomatic Note should list the names of the official travelers and specify their title or official status. It should also specify the date of departure from Ireland, a full description of the purpose of travel, where the official will be going to and the length of the proposed stay in the United States.
Visa processing and issuance fees
Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from paying visa fees for all types of visas. Official passport holders are not charged for official visas, but are required to pay visa application and reciprocal issuance fees, if applicable, for all non-official visas.
A personal interview is not required for A-1 or A-2 visa applicants. Applications can be submitted by the official traveler, or delivered by courier or messenger to the American Embassy, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4. Please telephone the Visa Information Unit prior to delivery of the application at 01-668-8777, extension 5821/5822/ or 5806.
Visa processing generally takes 48 hours.
Personal Employees
Personal employees, attendants, domestic workers, or servants of individuals who hold a valid A-1 or A-2 visa, may be issued an A-3 visa, if he/she meets the requirements. As part of the application process, an interview at the Embassy is required. Proof that you will receive a fair wage, sufficient to financially support yourself, comparable to that being offered in the area of employment in the U.S. is required. In addition, you'll need to demonstrate that you will perform the contracted employment duties. The consular officer will determine whether you are eligible for the A-3 visa.
To apply for an A-3 visa, the visa applicant must submit each of the items explained in the How to Apply - Required Documentation section above. In addition to the above, accompanying the visa application and supporting documents, an employment contract is required which must be signed by both the employer and the employee.
Visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs website for more information about Diplomatic Visas.
Diplomatic and International Organization Visas - Frequently Asked Questions
