Foreign Media Visas

An I visa is issued to any representative of film, television, the foreign press or other media. I visas are also issued to the spouses and unmarried children under 21 of the I visa applicant. Application may be made by submitting Form DS-156 to the U.S. Consular office where you live.  The consular officer may require additional documents to verify your purpose for obtaining the visa.  The visa may be issued the same day you apply and is in the form of a stamp in your passport.

What are the requirements for an I visa?

To be eligible, you must be a foreign member of the press, television, film or other media, or the spouse or unmarried child under 21 accompanying such a minor.  For you to be eligible your home country must provide the same services to U.S. citizens.  When you receive the visa you cannot change from one information medium to another or change employers without permission from the INS.

How long is the I visa valid?

I visas are issued for a year, renewable annually.