Visa rules for South African nationals transiting through the US? [duplicate]

I am a South African travelling to Toronto, I have a visa for Canada but my flight back is from Toronto to Washington DC Dulles international airport onward to OR Tambo in Johannesburg. Do I need another visa ?

Best Answer

Yes, you will need a transit or C visa for the United States.

According to the Department of State (emphasis mine):

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Transit (C) visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the United States enroute to another country, with few exceptions.

If you already have a valid visitor (B) visa, you may be able to use it to transit the United States. If you are a citizen of a participating country, you may be able to transit the United States on the Visa Waiver Program.

South Africa isn't on the VWP list, so unless you happen to have a B type visa (tourism) you need to apply for a transit visa.

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Do I need a visa if I am transiting through US?

Travelers must apply for and receive ESTA even when transiting in the U.S. to a third country without a visa. You must apply for ESTA in any of the following cases: transit, transfer, or stopover (layover).

What documents do I need to transit through USA?

Gather Required Documentation

Passport valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). ...
Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.

Can I transit through USA with B2 visa?

Yes, a traveler can use a B1/B2 visa to transit through the US by air or any other mode of travel.

Does South Africa require transit visa?

Transit Visa - 3 Days or lessTransit visas are issued to foreigners who will pass through South Africa enroute to its neighboring countries. Applicants for visas will be required to apply in person at the South African mission. No appointment is necessary.

Do I Need A Transit Visa If My Plane Has A Stop In The US?

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