US Crew/visitor Visa and ESTA
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Joined: Dec 2002
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From: flightdeck/earlyhours commute
US Crew/visitor Visa and ESTA
Sorry if this has been done before, but I didn't track it down with the search function. And in these times of 'fluid' regulations (as opposed to regulations on fluids), what was true yesteryear may be different now.
I have in my passport, US C1/D and B1/B2.
It has been suggested that I still need ESTA before going to the US for simulator check/training*. I was under the impression ESTA applied to the Visa Waiver program. Having B1/B2 VISA, means no need for ESTA, me thunked.
*AFSP/TSA approval granted for training.
I have in my passport, US C1/D and B1/B2.
It has been suggested that I still need ESTA before going to the US for simulator check/training*. I was under the impression ESTA applied to the Visa Waiver program. Having B1/B2 VISA, means no need for ESTA, me thunked.
*AFSP/TSA approval granted for training.
Last edited by Shiny side down; 14th November 2011 at 22:23. Reason: title was a little lacking

Joined: Jul 2001
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 185
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From: Ultima Thule
I just recently got the same Visas as you have and, if I remember correctly, had to go through the ESTA program before I filled out the application for the US C1/D and B1/B2.
Few weeks I went as a tourist through BOS and filled in the form as I would be arriving as ESTA. However, the border agent sent me back to fill out the form according to the B1/2 as it superseded the ESTA visa waiver.
Few weeks I went as a tourist through BOS and filled in the form as I would be arriving as ESTA. However, the border agent sent me back to fill out the form according to the B1/2 as it superseded the ESTA visa waiver.

Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 372
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From: Los Angeles
I was under the impression ESTA applied to the Visa Waiver program. Having B1/B2 VISA, means no need for ESTA, me thunked.
You only need ESTA if you are traveling under the Visa Waiver Program.
Here are the details:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 1
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From: Aberdeen
Do I need a esta if I have a c1d visa
My partner has just moved to the states and has been given a 5 year visa however I can only go with him if we are married. I was going to apply for a esta visa however working on ships I have a c1d visa valid til 2018. Does this mean I can access the states for the next 3 years? Someone help?
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 3
Likes: 5
From: Wor Yerm
Reciprocity
It's about time each and every European country demanded US crews to apply for crew visas. It should take three weeks for each visa application. After all, we can't be too careful and we should follow the leader in matters like this.
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 1
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From: Canada
I think I know the answer, but just double checking
I have a B1/B2 visa for the US.
Applying for a major airline soon as a pilot. Also planning to Apply for the Crew Visa so that I'll get the job.
Do I need to have a job offer first to get the crew visa?(I don't think so)
Having a B1/B2 visa, do I even need a crew visa to act as pilot on the airline between the US and Can?(I think so)
(I'm a Canadian PR)
Thanks to anyone that helps me out.
Applying for a major airline soon as a pilot. Also planning to Apply for the Crew Visa so that I'll get the job.
Do I need to have a job offer first to get the crew visa?(I don't think so)
Having a B1/B2 visa, do I even need a crew visa to act as pilot on the airline between the US and Can?(I think so)
(I'm a Canadian PR)
Thanks to anyone that helps me out.
Joined: Nov 1999
Posts: 2,308
Likes: 1
From the US embassy (london) website, you require as part of your documentary evidence:
A B1/B2 visa is insufficient to operate as a crew-member. It can be applied for at the same time (and often is) in order to save costs.
You would be as well checking the US embassy (Ottawa) website for any derogations that may be pertinent to Canadian citizens.
A letter from your employer on letter headed stationary confirming your employment with the company and period that you will be in the United States.
You would be as well checking the US embassy (Ottawa) website for any derogations that may be pertinent to Canadian citizens.


Joined: Dec 2002
Aviation Qualifications: ATP+Mil
Posts: 3,984
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From: Where the Quaboag River flows, USA
A B1 visa won't make you eligible for employment in the US, either, so you'll need a green card to apply for a job or be sponsored for an H1. A crew visa won't make you eligible.
B-1 Business Visitor Ineligible activies
The following activities require a working visa, and may not be carried out by business visitors:
Running a business.
"Gainful employment".
Payment by an organization within the US.
Participating as a professional in entertainment or sporting events.
The following activities require a working visa, and may not be carried out by business visitors:
Running a business.
"Gainful employment".
Payment by an organization within the US.
Participating as a professional in entertainment or sporting events.
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 13
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From: us
I'm not an attorney.
But I'm just wondering if it's allowed to enter US to receive training on B, C or D visa.
Could your AFSP/TSA be approved with such visas?
In my understanding, M or F visa is mandatory for any flight training.
But I'm just wondering if it's allowed to enter US to receive training on B, C or D visa.
Could your AFSP/TSA be approved with such visas?
In my understanding, M or F visa is mandatory for any flight training.






