Diplomatic and Government Officials

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Overview

A and G visas may be issued to diplomats and other government officials for official travel to the United States. Applicants must meet specific requirements to qualify for A or G visas under U.S. immigration law.

A and G visa applications for Swiss and Liechtenstein nationals must be submitted to the U.S. Embassy Consular Section through the Office of Foreign Affairs. Foreign national applications for A-1 and A-2 visas may be submitted directly by mail or courier to the U.S. Embassy Consular Section from accredited diplomatic missions. A diplomatic note must accompany all A and G application.

All A and G applications require a diplomatic note. Non-Swiss applicants must include a copy of their Swiss residency permit or Carte de legitimationDo not pay an MRV visa application fee through this site, as it will not be refunded.

Note: For any special queries regarding the submission of documents for Diplomatic Visas please contact: bernnivdip@state.gov 

Unofficial Travel for Diplomatic Passport Holder (B1/B2)

Diplomats applying for a B1/B2 visa can email bernnivdip@state.gov to schedule an interview appointment. You will need the following documents for a B1/B2 visa application (for unofficial business and personal travel):

  • Original Diplomatic passport
  • One recent (less than 6 months old), full-face clear photo (in color only) with white background (must be 5x5cm) per applicant. photo requirements
  • If you are not a Swiss citizen, a copy of you Swiss residency permit or Carte de legitimation.
  • One DS-160 confirmation page each and every person traveling (including infants). We only accept completed online forms. Incorrect, incomplete, and erroneous forms will lead to delays.
  • Stamped self-addressed envelope (6.30 CHF minimum)
  • Average processing time is 3-5 business days. Sometimes additional administrative processing is needed, which can influence the processing time of individual visa cases. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visa, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Appointments will be made for holders of diplomatic passports on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday mornings.

Diplomatic passport holders are exempt from paying the visa fee.

More Information

For more information, please visit this web page or consult with your government or agency's administrative office responsible for visa issues.

You can visit the Department of State website for more specific information about A visas and G visas.