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How to Obtain Your C1/D Visa as a South African or Zimbabwean Candidate Joining Viking Cruises

 

If you’ve been offered a position with Viking Cruises, congratulations! One of the key steps before you can join your ship is obtaining a C1/D visa, which is a U.S. transit and crew visa. This visa allows you to fly to the U.S. or transit through it en route to your assigned vessel.

At Waitre d’ Recruitment, we’ve helped thousands of candidates from South Africa and Zimbabwe prepare for this process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure your C1/D visa with confidence.

✅ What is a C1/D Visa?

  • C1 (Transit Visa): Allows you to pass through the U.S. to join your ship.

  • D (Crew Visa): Permits you to work onboard a ship that operates in U.S. waters.

Most cruise ship crew, including Viking staff, require both, issued together as a C1/D combination visa.

Step 1: Receive a Job Offer

Before applying for the visa, you must have an official job offer or contract from Viking Cruises. This includes:

  • A Letter of Employment / Assignment

  • Vessel details and joining instructions

You’ll receive these once you’ve successfully completed Viking’s recruitment process. Waitre d’ will assist you in preparing and submitting all required documentation for Viking’s approval.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Form Online

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to fill out the DS-160 visa application form:
🌐 https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/

  • Select C1/D as the visa type.

  • Upload a recent passport-style photo.

  • Be accurate with all your personal and travel details.

  • When done, print the DS-160 confirmation page — you’ll need this for your visa appointment.

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Step 3: Pay the MRV Fee

  • The non-refundable visa application fee is USD $185.

  • Payment instructions vary by country. We’ll guide you through the correct payment method for your location (bank deposit, online, etc.).

Keep the receipt, as it will be required at your visa interview.

Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Interview

Once your DS-160 form is submitted and the fee is paid, book your appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

  • South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban

  • Zimbabwe: U.S. Embassy in Harare

Use the online booking system:
🌐 https://ais.usvisa-info.com/

You’ll also set up where your passport should be delivered after your interview.

Step 5: Prepare for the Interview

Take the following documents to your visa interview:

  • Valid passport (with at least 12 months remaining)

  • DS-160 confirmation page

  • Appointment confirmation

  • MRV fee payment receipt

  • Viking employment letter and joining instructions

  • Seafarer’s medical certificate (PEME)

  • STCW certificates (if completed)

  • Police clearance (if requested)

👉 Dress professionally and be prepared to answer basic questions about your role, your employer (Viking), and your intentions.

Step 6: Visa Processing

  • If approved, your passport will be returned with the C1/D visa stamp inside.

  • Processing typically takes 3–10 working days, but timing can vary.

  • Your visa may be valid for up to 5 years, depending on the U.S. consulate’s discretion.

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Renewing a C1/D Visa

If you’re returning to Viking and your previous C1/D visa has expired, you may qualify for an interview waiver (subject to embassy policy). We’ll assist you in checking eligibility and guiding the process.

Waitre d’s Support

We provide ongoing support to all Viking candidates, including:

  • Help completing the DS-160 form

  • Visa interview preparation

  • Document checklists

  • Appointment scheduling

Questions?

Our team is ready to help you every step of the way.

📧 info@waitred.co.za
📞 +27 21 6891065

Waitre d’ Recruitment – proudly recruiting for Viking Cruises since 2016.