A Visa| Type | Non-immigrant visa for diplomats and foreign government officials |
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| Purpose | Official travel to the United States for diplomatic or governmental duties |
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| Categories |
- A-1: Ambassadors, ministers, diplomats, consular officers, and their immediate family
- A-2: Other government officials or staff and their families
- A-3: Personal employees, attendants, or servants of A-1 and A-2 visa holders
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| Eligibility |
- Traveling to the United States on behalf of national government to engage solely in official activities
- Duties must be governmental in character or nature, as determined by the U.S. Department of State
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| Application Process |
- Initial request made through the U.S. Department of State by the applicant's home country
- Complete standard visa application process
- Interview may be required (mandatory for A-3 applicants)
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| Oversight | U.S. Department of State |
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| Special Privileges |
- Diplomatic immunity (extent varies by position)
- Tax exemptions (varies based on card type)
- Exemption from certain U.S. taxes
- Ability to engage in diplomatic functions without interference
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An A Visa is a category of non-immigrant visas allowing travel to the United States issued to ambassadors, diplomats, government officials, and their support staff.