Whether you need a separate US transit visa for your layover depends on several factors, including:
- Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program:
- Turkey is not eligible for the TWOV program, which allows certain passport holders with valid visas for other countries (like Canada in your case) to transit through designated US airports without a separate US visa.
- Layover Location and Duration:
- If your layover stays entirely within the international transit area of a specific US airport and doesn't exceed 24 hours, you might not need a US visa. However, some airlines have stricter policies and might refuse boarding without a visa even for international transits.
- Country of Departure and Destination:
- Even if your layover location and duration fall within the acceptable range, certain travel conditions (e.g., departing or arriving from certain countries) might still require a US visa.
Therefore, in your case, due to being a Turkish citizen and not being eligible for the TWOV program, it's strongly recommended to obtain a separate US transit visa (C-1 category) for your layover, even if it stays within the international transit area and doesn't exceed 24 hours. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free transit experience while avoiding potential issues at the airport.
Here are some helpful resources for further information:
- US Transit Visa (C-1) Requirements:Ā https://workstudyvisa.com/c1-visa/
- Transit Without Visa Program:Ā https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/transit/apply.html
- Contact a US Embassy or Consulate for specific requirements based on your travel details.
Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to visa requirements. Obtaining a US transit visa in advance will give you peace of mind and avoid potential delays or complications at the airport.
