Types of Visas

Diplomatic / Official Visas (A)

Diplomatic/Official ("A") visas are used by any Indian central government employee entering the U. S. on official business for the central government of India, who travels on any type of passport. "A" visas are unavailable to employees of quasi-governmental bodies and provincial or local governments even if on official travel. Employees of the Indian central government, military or civilian, may qualify for "A-2 temporary duty (TDY)" visas if going to the U.S. for short periods of temporary official duty. TDY activities include training with the U.S. armed forces, temporary work at the Indian Embassy or an Indian Consulate, direct talks with the U.S. government or attendance at meetings on the orders of the Indian central government. "A-2 TDY" visas are exempt form the application fee.