US Government Outlines A-1 and A-2 Visa Requirements

The US government has published detailed guidance on how diplomats and foreign government officials can qualify for A-1 or A-2 visas, essential for those traveling to the US to perform official duties on behalf of their national government. It is specified that visitor visas or entry under the Visa Waiver Programme are not permitted for this purpose.

Heads of state or government automatically qualify for an A-1 visa, while other officials' visa categories depend on their duties in the US. Immediate family members of qualifying diplomats are also eligible for A-1 or A-2 visas.

Personal employees or domestic workers serving a diplomat may be issued A-3 visas. The guidance outlines that officials traveling for commercial or non-governmental functions do not qualify for A visas.

Required documents include a valid passport, a completed Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160), a recent passport-style photo, and a diplomatic note from the applicant's home government, detailing their official status and purpose of travel.