Life in the diplomatic corps often involves international moves and demanding schedules. To manage their households alongside professional duties, diplomats frequently rely on trusted personal employees. The A-3 visa makes this possible, providing a legal pathway for domestic workers to accompany their diplomat employers to the United States.
Navigating visa applications can seem daunting, but understanding the process can make all the difference. At Remitly, we aim to provide clear and helpful information for people living and working across borders. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the A-3 visa: who qualifies, how to apply, the importance of the employment contract, and the rights it protects.
What is the A-3 visa?
An A-3 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued to attendants, domestic workers, or personal staff of individuals who hold a valid A-1 or A-2 diplomatic visa.
What does the A-3 visa do?
The A-3 visa allows domestic workers to legally enter the US to work exclusively for a diplomat or foreign government official. This could be in roles such as nannies or childcare providers, cooks or chefs, butlers, housekeepers, gardeners, chauffeurs, and other personal attendants who ensure the smooth running of the diplomat’s household.
The visa’s purpose is to facilitate the official duties of foreign diplomats in the US by allowing them to bring over any necessary personal staff.
How does it differ from other domestic worker visas?
The A-3 visa is unique because it’s tied to an employer with diplomatic status via an A-1 or A-2 visa. This domestic worker visa for diplomats differs from similar entry authorizations in other ways:
- G-5 visa: For domestic workers of officials from international organizations like the United Nations or the World Bank
- B-1 visa: Can sometimes be used for domestic employees accompanying US citizens or certain other visa holders, but under different rules and conditions.
However, the A-3 category comes with specific contract requirements and protections tailored to the diplomatic context.
Who is eligible for an A-3 visa?
Eligibility depends on the diplomat employer’s status and whether the domestic employee meets all criteria set by the US Department of State.
The employer’s status: A-1 or A-2 diplomatic visa holders
The employer must be a diplomat or foreign government official holding a valid A-1 or A-2 visa. They will also be representing their country in the United States on official business.
Key eligibility criteria for domestic workers
To qualify for an A-3 visa, applicants generally must meet these requirements:
- Be employed as a domestic worker by the A-1 or A-2 visa holder
- Have a residence abroad that you have no intention of abandoning
- Often, have a pre-existing working relationship with the employer for at least one year before the diplomat’s assignment to the US
- Have a written employment contract that is fully compliant with US law
- Be interviewed by a consular officer who will assess your eligibility and understanding of your rights
A-3 visa requirements
This US diplomatic domestic employee visa is based on a strict employment contract, but other requirements apply too.
Employment contract: the foundation of the A-3 visa
The employment contract is the most critical piece of documentation required for an A-3 visa application. It isn’t just a formality; it is a legal agreement that must meet strict US government standards to protect the worker.
Essential elements of the employment contract
The contract must be in English, and if the employee isn’t proficient in English, in a language they do understand. Key provisions required by the US State Department include:
- Description of duties: The contract should provide a clear outline of the work to be performed
- Working hours: The number of work hours per week, regular days off, and details about sick leave and vacation time
- Wages: The hourly wage must be the US federal, state, or local minimum wage, whichever is greater. The contract must guarantee this wage for all hours worked.
- Overtime: Details on payment for any hours worked beyond the regular schedule
- Payment method: Outline how and when wages will be paid
- Transportation: Details on transportation to and from the US at the beginning and end of employment
- Worker protections: The contract must include statements confirming that the employer won’t withhold the employee’s passport, employment contract, or personal property, and that the employee will not be required to live at the employer’s residence
Other required documentation
Besides a well-prepared employment contract, the A-3 visa application also includes a few other documents:
- A valid passport
- Visa application Form DS-160 and confirmation page
- Proof of payment of visa application fees, if applicable
- Passport photo meeting official visa requirements
- Diplomatic note confirming an employer’s official status
The A-3 visa application process: a step-by-step guide
The process requires close coordination between the diplomat employer and the domestic worker.
Step 1: The employer prepares documentation and the compliant contract
The A-1 or A-2 visa holder must provide official proof of their diplomatic status—such as a diplomatic note from their government—and prepare a fully compliant employment contract.
Step 2: Domestic worker completes Form DS-160
The domestic worker must complete Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application). This form is the standard application for most US non-immigrant visas.
Step 3: Schedule a visa interview
After submitting Form DS-160, applicants need to schedule an interview at the appropriate US Embassy or Consulate.
Step 4: Gather documents and attend the interview
Applicants must bring all required documents to the interview, as outlined above. Also, have a copy of the “Know Your Rights” pamphlet, often called the Wilberforce pamphlet, which consular officers will review with you to ensure you understand your protections under US law.
Understanding processing times, fees, and next steps
Processing times can vary from one embassy or consulate to another. To avoid delays, it’s best to start your application well in advance of planned travel.
Another thing to note is that A-3 visa applicants are exempt from the standard visa application fees.
So, if the interview is successful and the visa is approved, your passport will be returned to you with the A-3 visa stamp, allowing you to travel to the US to begin your employment.
Common challenges and tips for a successful application
Awareness of potential issues can help you avoid complications, delays, or visa denial.
Non-compliance with US labor law in the employment agreement
This is a primary reason for A-3 visa denials. The diplomat employer must ensure the contract strictly adheres to all US Department of State requirements regarding wages, hours, and worker rights. Using the template available on the State Department’s official website is highly recommended.
Insufficient documentation of the employer-employee relationship
Failing to prove a pre-existing working relationship can be a red flag. Maintain clear employment history records, such as previous pay stubs, confirmation letters, or job contracts from your home country.
Incomplete or improper paperwork
Errors on the DS-160 form or missing documents can cause significant delays. Double-check your application forms and required documents before the interview, and ensure all information is accurate and consistent.
A-3 visa validity, renewals, and worker protections
The A-3 status is directly tied to the diplomat’s assignment and includes essential protections.
Duration of the A-3 visa
The A-3 visa is generally granted for a period that aligns with the sponsoring A-1 or A-2 visa holder’s tour of duty in the US, often for an initial period of up to three years.
Renewal options
The A-3 visa can be renewed if the diplomat’s assignment is extended and the domestic worker’s employment continues. The renewal process is similar to the initial application and requires a new or extended compliant employment contract.
Key benefits and rights for A-3 workers
- Legal framework to work: The A-3 visa provides a lawful pathway to work in the US as a domestic employee for a diplomat.
- Enforced labor protections: The stringent contract requirements and visa interview process are designed to ensure fair treatment, payment of required wages, and safe working conditions.
- Know your rights: The US government makes a concerted effort to share information about your rights as a worker, as well as protections against exploitation and human trafficking. Officials will also provide resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
And when you start earning a wage in the US, Remitly makes it easy to send money back home to support your family. You can also read about digital safety tips to protect your finances from unforeseen risks.
Making things work in the diplomatic world
The A-3 visa might not make headlines. However, it plays a vital role behind the scenes by helping diplomats live and work in the US while ensuring the protection of their domestic staff under US labor laws.
Success in this application really comes down to preparation. A strong, compliant employment contract and a crystal-clear understanding of everyone’s rights and responsibilities can make all the difference. Whether you’re the employer or the domestic worker, being informed is your best asset.
If you’re getting started, don’t just wing it. Check your eligibility, get your documents in order, and consider talking to an immigration expert. It’s a small step that can help set the tone for a respectful, lawful, and smooth working relationship from day one.
FAQs
Who can apply for the A-3 Visa, and what does it cover?
An A-3 visa is for the personal employees, attendants, or domestic workers of a foreign government official or diplomat who holds a valid A-1 or A-2 visa in the US. It covers legal employment for a specific diplomat under the terms of a compliant employment contract.
What should an employment contract include for the A-3 Visa?
A valid employment contract must include a description of duties, work hours, days off, an hourly wage that meets US wage laws, overtime provisions, and specific statements guaranteeing worker rights, such as freedom of movement and possession of their own passport.
Is the A-3 Visa renewable, and what are the requirements for renewal?
Yes, the A-3 visa is renewable. The primary requirements are that the diplomat employer retains valid A-1 or A-2 status, their assignment in the US is extended, and their working relationship with the domestic worker continues under a renewed employment contract.
Can family members accompany A-3 Visa holders to the US?
Generally, no. The A-3 visa does not have a derivative category for the domestic worker’s own spouse or children. Family members would need to qualify for a US visa in their own right, such as a visitor visa, which does not permit them to live or work in the US.
What happens if the diplomat’s assignment in the US ends before the visa expires?
An A-3 visa holder’s legal status is dependent on the employer’s diplomatic status. If the diplomat’s assignment ends and they depart the US, the A-3 worker’s status also ends, and they are expected to leave the US too.