Frequently Asked Questions on Visa Exemption for Bermudians

Q:        My passport is issued by the Government of Bermuda, but my nationality is listed as “UK citizen”.  Can I still enter the United States visa-free?

A:         You may apply for admission to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, which is different from the visa exemption for Bermudians.   You may stay no more than 90 days as a visitor for business or pleasure; you will not be permitted to adjust status (e.g. switch from tourist status to student status); and you may not request an extension of your stay.    

For details about the Visa Waiver Program for other nationalities, please see http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html.

 

Q:        I have a UK (or European Union, issued by the UK) passport, which lists me as a British Overseas Territory Citizen.  Can I travel to the US as a visa-exempt Bermudian on that?

A:         Your passport must have a stamp in it stating that you have Bermudian status in order to travel under visa waiver privileges for Bermudians.  Otherwise, you may apply for admission as a visitor for business or pleasure under the Visa Waiver Program

 

Q:        I need a visa, even though I am Bermudian.  Does my passport have to have the Bermuda Status stamp?

A.        Yes.  In order to have a U.S. visa placed in your Bermuda passport, the passport should state that you are a British Overseas (or Dependent) Territories Citizen, and have a Bermuda status stamp. 

 

Q:        My Bermudian passport meets all of the requirements for admission to the U.S., but I’m going to be a student.  Should I get a visa?

A:         As a Bermudian, you are not required to have a visa, even as a student.  You will have to present your I-20 or I-20M form at the port of entry, along with proof of sufficient funds to pay for your course of study. 

            Nevertheless, many students find it is useful to have a visa in order to have solid evidence of legal status in the United States.  For university or vocational students especially, this can assist with obtaining a driver’s license or opening a bank account, for example. 

 

Q:        How long can I stay in the U.S. on the visa exemption for Bermudians?

A:         The length of stay permitted will be decided when you apply for admission.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers may authorize a stay of up to six months for most travelers.

 

Q:        I spent five months in the U.S. earlier this year, visiting family.  I’ve been back in Bermuda for three months, and I’d like to go back to the States again for another visit.  How soon am I allowed to go back, and how long can I stay? 

A:  There are no firm rules on how long you must stay in Bermuda before re-applying for admission to the United States.  All persons applying to visit the United States must be able to show that they have a permanent residence abroad that they do not intend to abandon, i.e., they must overcome the law’s presumption that they intend to immigrate.  If you are spending more than six months in a one-year period in the U.S., you should be prepared to explain how you are supported there and what will compel you to return to Bermuda.