C-1 Transit Visa

Reading time: 5 minutes Total views: 51

Rate:

Publication date: 29.07.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “I'm transiting through New York City with a 10-hour layover. Am I allowed to leave the airport on a C-1 visa?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

22.07.2025 18:45:17 A C-1 visa is a transit visa for individuals traveling through the United States to another country. With a C-1 visa, you are generally allowed to leave the airport during your layover, provided you adhere to the conditions of your visa and return in time for your connecting flight. However, it's important to consider a few factors: 1. **Time Constraints**: With a 10-hour layover, you'll need to factor in time for immigration and security checks both when leaving and returning to the airport. 2. **Immigration Clearance**: You must go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival. The CBP officer will have the final say on whether you can enter the U.S., even temporarily. 3. **Local Regulations**: Make sure there are no specific restrictions or requirements related to COVID-19 or other local regulations that might affect your ability to leave the airport. 4. **Return Time**: Ensure you return with ample time before your next flight's departure, considering potential traffic delays or other unforeseen circumstances. If you're planning to explore New York City during your layover, it would be wise to plan your itinerary carefully and keep track of time so you can enjoy some sights while ensuring a smooth transit experience.

BASE (basic) 78.63

GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

USA / Washington

22.07.2025 19:26:50 You generally cannot leave the airport on a C‑1 transit visa—it’s strictly for “immediate and continuous transit”, meaning you must proceed straight to your next flight without entering the U.S. interior. Although there are rare cases where CBP may stamp permission allowing you to briefly exit, this is exceptional, not the rule. Since you have a 10‑hour layover in NYC, if you wish to explore the city, you’ll need a B‑2 tourist visa or be eligible under the Visa Waiver Program, not a C‑1 transit visa.

PREMIUM 1.15

Moroz Eugene Olegovich

Consultant

USA / California

22.07.2025 19:33:20 Yes, with a C-1 transit visa, you are generally allowed to leave the airport during your layover — including in New York City — as long as you meet all entry conditions and are admitted by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Important points: CBP makes the final decision at the port of entry. If they admit you, you can move freely within the U.S. for the duration of your allowed transit (typically up to 29 days). You must show proof of your onward travel to a third country (e.g., confirmed ticket, visa if required). You cannot change status, work, or overstay. Make sure your layover timing allows you to return to the airport well before your next flight. In short: yes, you can leave JFK or another NYC airport with a C-1 visa during your 10-hour layover, but be mindful of time and follow all conditions.