Eligibility Requirements
- Bangladeshi citizens must obtain a C-1 Transit Visa to transit through US airports
- Confirmed onward ticket departing the USA within 29 days of arrival
- Valid visa or entry permit for your final destination country
- You must remain in transit and may not work or study in the USA during transit
- No US visa ineligibility grounds (criminal record, prior deportation, etc.)
Required Documents
5 mandatory documents Β· 0 supporting documents recommended
Mandatory Documents
Valid Passport
RequiredPassport valid for at least 6 months beyond transit date.
DS-160 Confirmation Page
RequiredCompleted online nonimmigrant visa application form from ceac.state.gov.
Confirmed Flight Itinerary
RequiredAll flight bookings showing arrival in USA and onward departure to final destination within 29 days.
Valid Visa for Final Destination
RequiredIf your final destination requires a visa (e.g., Canada, Australia), show that valid visa.
MRV Fee Receipt
RequiredProof of USD 185 visa application fee payment.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Check If You Need a C-1 Visa
All Bangladeshi passport holders transiting through any US airport (even without leaving the plane in theory) require a C-1 Transit Visa. There is no visa-free transit for Bangladeshis in the USA, even for very short layovers. Some holders of valid B-1/B-2 US visas may use those instead of a C-1.
Complete DS-160 Application
Apply online at ceac.state.gov for a C-1 Transit Visa. This is the same online system used for tourist and other US visas.
Pay MRV Fee and Schedule Interview
Pay the USD 185 visa fee. Then schedule a visa interview at US Embassy Dhaka. Note: interview wait times can range from a few weeks to several months. Book as early as possible.
Attend Embassy Interview
Appear at the US Embassy Dhaka interview. A consular officer will ask about your transit purpose, destination, and qualifications. Bring all documents including your onward destination visa.
Receive Visa and Transit
If approved, your C-1 visa allows you to transit US airports. The visa is typically issued for 10 years with multiple entries, but each transit is limited to 29 days. Present all documents at US border control during transit.
Fees Breakdown
All fees are approximate. Exchange rates change β confirm current amounts before applying.
| Fee Type | Amount (BDT) |
|---|---|
| US Transit Visa (C-1) Application Fee | ৳ 21,000 |
| SEVIS Fee (if applicable) | β |
* Fees subject to change. Always verify on the official visa portal or VFS Global website before applying.
Processing Time
C-1 transit visa processing depends on interview wait times at US Embassy Dhaka, which can range from a few weeks to several months depending on demand. Plan at least 3 months ahead if you have a tight connection through the USA. Once the interview is done, visa issuance typically takes 5-7 business days.
Where to Apply in Bangladesh
US Embassy Dhaka, Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka. All US visa categories including transit visas require an in-person interview at the embassy. There is no alternative application center for US visas in Bangladesh.
Interview Tips
For a C-1 transit visa interview, clearly state that you are transiting (not visiting) the USA, show your onward destination details and visa, explain why you are routing through the USA (connecting flight), and demonstrate strong ties to Bangladesh or your final destination. The interview is brief but important.
Common Rejection Reasons
Avoid these common mistakes that cause visa refusals:
- Prior US visa refusal under Section 214(b) (non-immigrant intent)
- Overstay of a previous US visa
- Criminal record or security concerns
- Onward destination visa not valid or expired
- Unclear transit purpose
- Insufficient evidence of ties to Bangladesh or final destination
Frequently Asked Questions β United States Transit Visa
Q1. Do I really need a US visa just for a layover in the USA?
Yes. Unlike most countries, the USA requires a transit visa (C-1) for all Bangladeshi passport holders transiting through US airports, even for very short layovers. You cannot transit through the USA without a valid US visa (either B-1/B-2 visitor visa or C-1 transit visa).
Q2. Can I use my existing US tourist visa (B-1/B-2) for transit?
Yes. If you hold a valid B-1/B-2 US tourist/business visa, you can use it for transit through US airports without a separate C-1 visa.
Q3. How long is the C-1 transit visa valid?
C-1 transit visas are typically issued for 10 years with multiple entries, same as B-1/B-2 visas. Each transit stay is limited to 29 days maximum, but in practice you should only stay the duration needed for your connection.
Related Visa Guides
Other United States Visas
Transit Visa for Other Countries
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