Getting Visas for Foreign Delivery Captains

[captainteacup]

Anyone know how I can gain a visa for my delivery captain? He's french and his girlfriend is from Argentina. I want them to be able to show the ZARPE and get entry into Texas in Corpus Christi.

THANKS>

[bvimatelot]

That's kind of you but actually, its his problem!

[boatman61]

I agree... but tell him to go here http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html
He'll find a checklist for them to fill in.... they may qualify for a visa waiver if they're flying in... by sea a different ball game.... but it'll get him on track.

[Auspicious]

It's your problem - to get a B1/B2 visa he must have a US citizen sponsor the application. It isn't hard, but definitely easier if you and he can visit a US Embassy together. I got one for a crew member in Bermuda heading to Norfolk in 24 hours. If you have to ship documents back and forth with notarized signatures it will take longer of course.

Shouldn't be a problem for a French citizen; I have no knowledge of our treatment of applications from Argentinians.

There will be a minor background check. Conviction of any transgression that would be a felony in the US is a problem. A pattern of more minor convictions is also a problem.

[GordMay]

U.S. Department of State - US Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina
➥ Nonimmigrant Visas
➥ How to apply

[osirissail]

They might qualify for "E" visa - crewmembers
See: Crewmember Visas
and:
Crewmember Visas

[Capt Phil]

I have found that one of the most important documents besides visas and valid passports on foreign deliveries is the Letter of Permission from the owner authorizing the skipper to move the boat into or out of the country where the boat is lying. My experience is limited to Costa Rica, Mexico, US and Canada. In all countries, Customs and Immigration wanted to see the document, even on a couple occasions when the owner was going to be aboard for at least part of the passage.

[captainteacup]

Thanks, Capt Phil. My original thoughts exactly!

Bocas Del Toro to Corpus Christi or (alt) New Orleans is the plan.

T