G Visas for International Organization Personnel
Diplomatic Status Visas
G Visa Categories Overview
G visas are issued to representatives and employees of international organizations that have been designated by the U.S. government. These visas provide varying levels of diplomatic privileges and immunities depending on the category and the individual's role within the organization.
G-1 Visa
Category G-1Principal permanent representatives to international organizations and their immediate family members
Examples: UN Permanent Representatives, heads of delegations to international organizations
G-2 Visa
Category G-2Other representatives of member governments to international organizations and their immediate family members
Examples: Deputy representatives, advisors, experts on temporary assignment
G-3 Visa
Category G-3Representatives of non-member governments to international organizations and their immediate family members
Examples: Observers, representatives from non-member states attending UN activities
G-4 Visa
Category G-4Officers and employees of international organizations and their immediate family members
Examples: UN Secretariat staff, WHO employees, World Bank officials, IMF personnel
G-5 Visa
Category G-5Personal employees, attendants, or domestic workers for G-1 through G-4 visa holders
Examples: Domestic workers, personal attendants, drivers for diplomatic personnel
Qualifying International Organizations
Not all international organizations qualify for G visa designation. Organizations must be formally recognized by the U.S. State Department and have official agreements governing their operations in the United States.
Major Qualifying Organizations Include:
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a G visa, you must:
- Must be traveling to engage in official business for qualifying international organization
- Must be accredited by the international organization in appropriate capacity
- Must have no intention of abandoning foreign residence
- Must be able to demonstrate purpose and duration of stay
- Organization must be recognized by U.S. for G visa purposes
- Must not be inadmissible under U.S. immigration law
Required Documentation
G visa applications must include:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
- Completed DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
- Official letter from international organization confirming position and purpose
- Note verbale or diplomatic note from sending government (if applicable)
- Proof of financial support during stay in the United States
- Evidence of intention to return to home country after assignment
- Family relationship documents for dependent applicants (G-2, G-4 derivatives)
Application Process
Organization Accreditation
International organization confirms position and provides official documentation
Complete DS-160
Submit online nonimmigrant visa application selecting appropriate G category
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect organizational letters, government notes, and personal documentation
Schedule Interview
Book visa interview at U.S. consulate (may be waived for certain categories)
Attend Interview
Present documents and explain international organization duties
Visa Issuance
Receive G visa valid for duration of assignment or up to 5 years
Entry to United States
Present visa to CBP and receive authorized stay period
Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities
G visa holders enjoy diplomatic privileges and immunities that vary based on their specific category and role. These protections are essential for carrying out international organization duties without interference from local jurisdiction.
Typical Privileges Include:
- Diplomatic immunity from criminal jurisdiction (varies by G category)
- Immunity from civil and administrative jurisdiction for official acts
- Exemption from federal, state, and local taxes on official salary
- Exemption from Social Security taxes and contributions
- Inviolability of official residence and communications
- Freedom of movement within the United States for official duties
- Diplomatic pouch privileges for official correspondence
Immunity Limitations
Family Members and Dependents
Eligible Family Members
- • Spouse of G visa holder
- • Unmarried children under 21 years of age
- • Parents of G-1 through G-3 visa holders (in some cases)
- • Other family members as defined by international agreements
Family Member Rights
- • Same diplomatic immunity as principal visa holder
- • Ability to study in the United States
- • Employment authorization for spouses (with approval)
- • Duration of stay tied to principal's assignment
G-5 Domestic Worker Protections
Special Protections for G-5 Visa Holders
- Must receive at least minimum wage for all hours worked
- Entitled to overtime pay for hours worked over 40 per week
- Employer must provide written contract in worker's language
- Right to retain passport and identity documents
- Protected from abuse, trafficking, and exploitation
Employment Authorization
Primary Visa Holders
Spouses and Dependents
Duration of Stay and Renewal
Initial Period
G visas are typically issued for the duration of the assignment or up to 5 years, whichever is shorter. Duration depends on the specific assignment and organizational needs.
Extensions and Renewals
G visas can be renewed as long as the holder continues to work for the qualifying international organization. No numerical limits apply to G visa renewals.
Termination of Status
G status ends when employment with the international organization terminates. Individuals have a reasonable period to depart the United States or change to another status.
Tax Considerations
Tax Treatment for G Visa Holders
Tax Exemptions
- • Federal income tax on official salary
- • State and local income taxes (varies)
- • Social Security and Medicare taxes
- • Unemployment insurance taxes
Taxable Income
- • Income from non-official sources
- • Investment income and capital gains
- • Spouse's employment income (if authorized)
- • Rental income from U.S. property
Change of Status and Adjustment
Status Changes
Permanent Residence
Processing Information
Processing Time
Application Fees
Important Considerations
Critical Requirements
- Must maintain employment with qualifying international organization throughout stay
- Diplomatic immunity does not cover all activities - personal matters generally not protected
- Must notify State Department of address changes and significant life events
- Departure required when assignment ends - limited time allowed for personal affairs