Visas for Diplomats and Foreign Government Officials

If you are a diplomat or government official who is physically present in the United States on assignment: Requesting to renew (reapply for) your visa or that of an immediate family member, you must renew your A-1 or A-2 Visa in the United States. A-3 visa holders must reapply for their visas outside the United States. Requesting to change status into or out of A status, contact us to learn more.

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 prior to entering the United States. They cannot travel using visitor visas or under the Visa Waiver Program. With the exception of a Head of State or Government — who qualifies for an A visa regardless of the purpose of travel — your position within your country’s government and your purpose of travel determines whether you need an A-1 or A-2 visa. Immediate family members of diplomats and government officials receive A-1 or A-2 visas, with few exceptions. Personal employees, attendants, or domestic workers for diplomats and government officials (holding a valid A-1 or A-2 visa) may be issued A-3 visas.