You’re a diplomat or government worker who wants to work in the US? Visa A and G are required for people working in diplomatic, official, or international organization work. These visas allow representatives of foreign governments and workers for international agencies to travel into the United States on official business but with special privileges.
– Let us know about A and G visa eligibility, application, visa types, price, etc in this article. If you’re a diplomat, a government employee, or part of an international organization, knowing these visas is going to help you sail through the U.S. immigration system smoothly.
Leave it to Law and Visas as your immigration advisor for hassle-free visa applications and clearances.
What Are A and G Diplomatic Visas?
Diplomatic visas are classified as A and G., they are restricted nonimmigrant visas granted to foreign state officials, diplomats, or employees of foreign governments. These visas give them privileged rights, such as waivers of some U.S. taxes, so that they can conduct their official duties without interruption. Diplomats and government officials are on A visas, and foreign company employees are on G.
A Visas for Diplomats and Government Officials of Foreign Countries.
The A category is for citizens of the country who are carrying out official diplomatic duties for their country. It’s the visa that allows you to do official business if you are a diplomat or foreign government worker who is working in the United States, and it gives you diplomatic benefits like exemptions from taxes.
Tourists, business persons, and other unofficial activity is not covered by A visas.
Types of A Visas:
A-1 Visa: It’s for top government officials like Ambassadors, public ministers, and professional diplomats. It even covers their close relatives. For instance, European Union (EU) officials or African Union (AU) delegates.
A-2 Visa: For Foreign Government Officials and Families arriving in the U.S. on official business without A-1 status. This can be a military or government worker or any other lower-level administrator.
G Visas for Foreign Employees of International Companies.
Its G category applies to people who work for international organizations or as representatives of international organizations. If you’re a non-national employee and you have to come to the U.S. on official business, this visa will allow you to stay and provide the same benefits as the A visa.
You can get G visas if you work for agencies such as the United Nations or World Bank.
Types of G Visas:
G-1 Visa: Provided to the representatives of official foreign governments to foreign organizations and their family members.
G-2 Visa: Given to individuals on behalf of a recognized foreign country who are members of international agencies, but not subject to G-1.
G-3 Visa: Representatives from Non-member/Non-recognised governments and their families.
G-4 Visa: For foreign workers in foreign institutions such as the United Nations and family members of such employees.
How To Apply For A And G Visas?
There are usually multiple steps to a visa application for A and G. This is a quick breakdown of what to do:
Verify Your Status: Ensure you are eligible for an A or G visa if you are working as a diplomat or the agent of a foreign organization or country.
Fill Out the DS-160 Form: This online form takes down your background information, travel info, and other details.
Add Diplomatic Note: An official diplomatic note issued by your country/association must be submitted with your application. It is a confirmation that you are registered and that you are traveling for the proper reasons. It needs to be a listing of your name, date of birth, job title, dates of travel, and duties while in the U.S.
Go to Visa Interview (if needed): A and G visa applicants, in general, do not have to take an interview, however, the consular officer can request one if they are required.
Send Additional Documents: You will be asked to send additional documents like diplomatic notes or travel orders, depending on the type of visa (A or G).
Permission and Entry for Visa: With your permit, you can visit the United States for official purposes.
A and G Visa Costs
Those who have A and G visas do not usually pay visa application fees. Visa Fees for all Visa types may also be waived if you hold a diplomatic passport.
But please remember that fees may still be exempt at the consular officer’s discretion and depending on the regulations, some diplomatic types will still have to pay.
FAQs about A and G Visas Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you do work in the US on a diplomatic visa?
Definitely, but only for official purposes associated with your diplomatic missions. Diplomatic visa holders can’t do any work outside their job description without approval.
2. Can Dependents of Diplomatic Visa Holders Travel to the U.S?
It is true that spouses and children of diplomatic visa holders who are not married, and under the age of 21, can accompany them in the U.S. They get derivative visas, depending on eligibility and approval.
3. Does the spouse of a diplomat work in the US?
No, diplomat visa holders and spouses are usually allowed to work in the US. But to become legal workers, they need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
4. A and G visa holders: Can they receive green cards?
Yes, there are some situations in which A/G visa holders can get green cards (permanent residency). But first, they must get a waiver of immunity from their country, so they can forfeit some diplomatic privileges. If you are an A or G visa holder interested in permanent residency, it is best to work with an immigration lawyer and find out what steps to take.
A and G visas are intended for you if you are a diplomat or official who is traveling to the United States for work purposes and wishes to get important privileges. This process of getting a visa can seem confusing, but with the right information, you will not have a problem getting it done.
We are Law and visa experts in granting visas for diplomats and officials of state and complying with US immigration regulations. Call us now to get started on your visa application or know if you qualify. Our team of specialists is ready to take it as fast and painlessly as we can, with approval guaranteed, or your money back!
