Exercise normal precautions in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to St. Kitts and Nevis:
Must have six months validity at entry
1 page required for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
None
None
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Saint Kitts and Nevis for information on U.S. – Saint Kitts and Nevis relations.
Passports and visa: U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Saint Kitts and Nevis. No visa is required for stays up to 90 days if you have an onward or return ticket, confirmation of accommodation, and can produce evidence of your ability to maintain yourself.
NOTE: Be aware that Caribbean cruises that begin and end in the United States (closed loop cruises) do not require that you travel with a valid passport. However, should you need to disembark due to an emergency and you do not have a valid passport, you may encounter difficulties entering or remaining in a foreign country. You may also have difficulty attempting to re-enter the United States by air because many airlines will require a valid passport before allowing you to board the aircraft. As such, we strongly recommend that you always travel abroad with your valid passport.
HIV/AIDS: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions may exist. Please contact the Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis before you travel.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Crime: Crimes, including murder, rape, armed robbery, petty street crime, automobile break-ins and burglary, do occur. Do not leave valuables unattended in public areas, unsecured hotel rooms or in rental homes.
Do not buy counterfeit or pirated goods. These are illegal in the United States, and you may also be breaking local law.
Victims of Crime: For police and medical emergencies call 911. For fire emergencies call 333. After you have contacted local authorities, contact the U.S. Embassy at (246) 227-4000.
SSee the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at (246) 227-4000.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. Persons violating local laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs or firearms are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, request that police or prison officials notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Firearms: Firearms entry restrictions may exist. Please contact the Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis before you travel.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: The law criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activity between men, which carries a penalty up to 10 years in prison, but there is relaxed enforcement of this law. The law does not prohibit sexual activity between women. There are no laws that prohibit discrimination against a person on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:
Access to buildings, pedestrian paths and transportation is extremely difficult for persons with disabilities. Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections. Pedestrian crossings are also very infrequent and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations for disabled persons.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not apply overseas.
Medical facilities in Saint Kitts and Nevis do not meet U.S. standards. The principal medical facilities are Joseph N. France General Hospital (telephone (869) 465-2551) on St. Kitts and Alexandria Hospital (telephone (869) 469-5473) on Nevis. Neither island has a hyperbaric chamber; divers requiring treatment for decompression illness must be evacuated. Medical transport can take hours to respond. Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Chikungunya and dengue fever are present on the island. Travelers should carry and use CDC recommended insect repellents.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety
Major roads are in average to poor condition, and drivers may encounter wandering animals and slow moving heavy equipment. Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning, so you should always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and watch for signs of sudden braking. Automobiles may lack working safety and signaling devices.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.
Traffic Laws: Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. There is relatively little police enforcement of traffic regulations. Travelers are required to obtain a visitor's driver’s license, which may be obtained from the Traffic Department or the Fire Station for a small fee on presentation of a valid home or international license.
Public Transportation: Public transportation consists of mini-buses and taxis. Established, reasonable fares are available from airport dispatchers and local hotels.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the country’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assesses whether local civil aviation authorities are in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
St. Kitts and Nevis and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since June 1, 1995.
For information concerning travel to St. Kitts and Nevis, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for St. Kitts and Nevis.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children's Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including St. Kitts and Nevis. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Website
The St. Kitts and Nevis Central Authority for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Attorney General's Office (AG). The AG's role is to perform the duties given to central authorities under the Hague Abduction Convention, including processing Hague Abduction Convention applications for return of and access to children.
They can be reached at:
Attorney General's Chambers
Government HQ, Church Street
Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
Telephone: + (869) 467-1013
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in St. Kitts and Nevis, the left-behind parent must submit a Hague application to the St. Kitts and Nevis Central Authority. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the St. Kitts and Nevis Central Authority, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are not fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or St. Kitts and Nevis central authorities. Attorney fees, if necessary, are the sole responsibility of the person hiring the attorney. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, St. Kitts and Nevis. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in St. Kitts and Nevis. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
Retaining a private attorney is not required in order to submit Hague Abduction Convention applications to a court in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Attorney General's office will present the case to a court but does not represent either parent in the proceedings. If an applicant decides to hire a private attorney, the attorney should contact the Attorney General's Office as soon as possible after the Hague Abduction Convention application has been filed. Private attorney fees are the sole responsibility of the person hiring the attorney. The Legal Aid Centre in St. Kitts and Nevis may offer reduced fee or free legal services to parents with financial need. Questions about these services can be directed to the Director of Legal Aid at (+869) 466-5697.
The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, which is accredited to St. Kitts and Nevis, posts a list of attorneys practicing in St. Kitts and Nevis.
This list and information regarding the Legal Aid Centre in St. Kitts is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any legal firm, entity, or individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included above and/or on the list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The SKCA offers mediation at no cost to either party in Hague abduction cases before they enter the judicial stage. Interested parties may also contact the Attorney General's office or municipal authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis to seek assistance in mediating a pre-trial solution. Once a case enters the judicial phase, the family judge may seek to mediate a pre-trial solution using mediators appointed by the High Court. Questions about court appointed mediators can be directed to the High Court, at +869-465-2009/7003.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
St. Kitts and Nevis is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, when the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry adoption processing for St. Kitts and Nevis did not change.
According to the laws of St. Kitts and Nevis , applicants for adoption must be resident and domiciled in St. Kitts/Nevis. The adoption of a female child by a single male is not permitted unless a family tie exists. In addition, American prospective adoptive parents need to understand that there may be significant differences between the U.S. and St. Kitts/Nevis definitions of "orphan," and that a finding of adoptability by a St. Kitts and Nevis authority will not necessarily mean that the child will be able to immigrate to the United States.
To bring an adopted child to United States from St. Kitts and Nevis, you must be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more
In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective adoptive parents, St. Kitts and Nevis also has the following requirements for prospective adoptive parents:
St. Kitts and Nevis has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption. You cannot adopt a child in St. Kitts and Nevis unless he or she meets the requirements outlined below.
In addition to these requirements, a child must meet the definition of an orphan under U.S. law for you to bring him or her back to the United States. Learn more about these U.S. requirements.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Abandonment Requirements: According to the laws of St. Kitts and Nevis, children do not have to be orphans to be adopted. An orphan is defined as a child who has no biological parents, legal guardians or other persons responsible for his/her maintenance, care, and upbringing. Children do not have to be abandoned for purposes of adoption.
As noted at the beginning of this flyer, these definitions may not always be sufficient to permit the child to immigrate to the United States. Prior to concluding an adoption of a specific child from St. Kitts/Nevis, American citizens should consult with the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, regarding the possible eligibility or ineligibility of that child for a U.S. immigrant visa.
The Adoption Authority of St. Kitts and Nevis
Ministry of Social Development, Probation and Child Care Unit
The process for adopting a child from St. Kitts and Nevis generally includes the following steps:
Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt
To bring an adopted child from St. Kitts and Nevis to the United States, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt (Form I-600A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn how.
In addition to meeting the U.S. requirements for adoptive parents, you need to meet the requirements of St. Kitts and Nevis as described in the Who Can Adopt section.
Be Matched with a Child
If you are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in St. Kitts and Nevis will provide you with a referral to a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of a particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child. .
The child must be eligible to be adopted according to the requirements of St. Kitts and Nevis, as described in the Who Can be Adopted section. The child must also meet the definition of an orphan under U.S. law. Learn more.
Adopt the Child (or Gain Legal Custody) in St. Kitts and Nevis
The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining legal custody) in St. Kitts and Nevis generally includes the following:
ADOPTION FEES: The cost for adoption is approximately U.S. dollars 745.
The U.S. Embassy for Saint Kitts and Nevis discourages the payment of any fees that are not properly receipted, "donations," or "expediting" fees, that may be requested from prospective adoptive parents. Such fees have the appearance of "buying" a baby and put all future adoptions in Saint Kitts and Nevis at risk.
It is illegal for any adoptive parent, birth parent or guardian, except with the sanction of the court, to receive any payment or other reward or to give or take any such payment or reward for adoption. An application for an adoption order must contain a statement that no such payment was received or made. There are no exit controls on children leaving St. Kitts/Nevis.
Relationship of adoptive parents to child, if any
NOTE: Additional documents or information may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. Learn how.
Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption
After you finalize the adoption (or gain legal custody) in St. Kitts and Nevis, the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) MUST determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted (Form I-600). Learn how.
Birth Certificate
You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
St. Kitts and Nevis Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from St. Kitts and Nevis.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-600 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Learn more
The United States does not have an embassy in St. Kitts and Nevis. The U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados covers St. Kitts and Nevis and processes immigrant visa cases for residents of St. Kitts and Nevis. The Embassy requests that prospective adoptive parents contact them directly as soon as they have received their approved I-600A or I-600 from the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Upon receipt of the approved I-600A, I-600, telegraphic or faxed approval from the Department of Homeland Security, the Embassy will send the adoptive parent (also known as the "petitioner") instructions on how to apply for the child's U.S. immigrant visa. Once the petitioner has completed several forms, the Embassy will schedule an appointment and mail the petitioner a letter confirming the appointment. The petitioner can also call the Embassy at 246-431-0225 and request an appointment to coincide with their visit to the island to complete the adoption. Appointments may also be requested via e-mail at: ConsularBridge2@state.gov.
At the time of the visa interview, the parents must present the following documents:
If the Embassy is not in possession of the approved I-600 petition or confirmation from USCIS, the petitioners must present a copy of their home study and evidence of support. If the petitioner has all the required documents and the applicant seems otherwise eligible under U.S. immigration law, the visa can be issued the day following the application.
Prospective adoptive parents should expect that they and their adoptive child will have to remain in Barbados for at least two days, as the visa process requires processing time.
Note: Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 hours and it will not normally be possible to provide the visa to adoptive parents on the day of the interview. Adoptive parents should verify current processing times at the appropriate consulate or embassy before making final travel arrangements.
For adoptions finalized abroad: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
For adoptions finalized in the United States: The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final adoption decree.
* Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.
Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave St. Kitts and Nevis. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.
To find information about obtaining a visa for St. Kitts and Nevis, see the Department of State's Country Specific Information.
Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.
The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in St. Kitts and Nevis registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Registration is free and can be done online.
What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy accredited to St. Kitts and Nevis
U.S. Embassy
P.O. Box 302
Bridgetown BB 11000
Bridgetown, Barbados
Tel: 246-227-4000, x4193
Fax: 246-431-0179
Adoption Authority of St. Kitts and Nevis
Ministry of Community, Social Development and Gender Affairs
Probation and Child Protection Services
Maurice Williams, Director
Tel: 1-869-465-2521, extension 1379
Fax: 1-869-466-8244
Embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis
Embassy of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the OAS
3216 New Mexico Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20016
Tel: (202) 686-2636
Fax: (202) 686-5740
Internet: http://www.stkittsnevis.org/
Office of Children's Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
E-mail: AskCI@state.gov or Adoption USCA@state.gov
Website: http://adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| E-1 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-2B | None | N/A | N/A 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update
Available
Fees: Local Fee is ECD $3.00, if applied for from the U.S. the fee is USD$3.00
Document Name: Birth Certificate
Issuing Authority: Available from the Registrar General, Health Centre, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Registrar Seal/ White/ handwritten
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar General
Registration Criteria: Must be the owner of the Birth Certificate, next of kin or a person given a notarized request by the owner.
Procedure for Obtaining: Obtain ECD$3.00 stamp at the post office and apply at civil registry
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Local Fee is ECD $3.00, if applied for from the U.S. the fee is USD$3.00
Document Name: Death Certificate
Issuing Authority: Available from the Registrar General, Health Centre, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Registrar Seal/ White/ handwritten
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar General
Registration Criteria: Next of Kin
Procedure for Obtaining: Obtain ECD$3.00 stamp from the post office and apply at civil registry
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Please check back for update
Available
Fees: Local Fee is ECD $3.00, if applied for from the U.S. the fee is USD$3.00
Document Name: Marriage certificate
Issuing Authority: Available in the form of certified copies of entries in the Register Book of Marriages from the Registrar General, Health Centre, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Registrar Seal/ White/ handwritten with an electronic Paper sequence at the top of the certificate
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar General
Registration Criteria: Owners of the Certificate
Procedure for Obtaining: Obtain ECD$3.00 stamp at the post office and apply at civil registry
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: Church certificate also available if marriage conducted at a church, however Post does not consider these a substitute for the Registrar’s certificate.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Local Fee of ECD$5.00
Document Name: Decree Absolute
Issuing Authority: Available in the form of certified copies of the Decree Absolute from the Registrar, Supreme Court, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar of High Court
Registration Criteria: Parties to the divorce
Procedure for Obtaining: Obtain ECD$5.00 stamp from post office and apply at High Court.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Local Fee is ECD $3.00, if applied for from the U.S. the fee is USD$3.00
Document Name: Adoption Certificate
Issuing Authority: Adoption certificates are available from the Registrar General, Health Centre, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Registrar Seal/ White/ handwritten
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registrar General
Registration Criteria: Owner of Certificate or legal guardians if owner is a minor
Procedure for Obtaining: Obtain ECD$3.00 stamp and apply at civil registry
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
National ID Cards
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: Electoral Card
Issuing Authority: Electoral Office
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Picture ID / white with green stripe on top, red stripe on bottom/ unique registration number/ holographic features/barcode on back.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Electoral Officer
Registration Criteria: Issued at age 18 to all citizens as well as commonwealth citizens who have lived in St Kitts & Nevis for at least one year and are registered to vote.
Procedure for Obtaining: Register to vote at electoral office upon registration you are issued with the card that serves as a National Identification Card
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: For nationals the cards will be valid for 10 years. For Commonwealth citizens 5 years. For other legal residents 1 year
Court/Prison Records
Available as an attachment to the Police Certificate for a fee of EC$50.00
Police Certificates
Available
Fees: A Fee of ECD $10.00
Document Name: Police Certificate
Issuing Authority: Available from the Criminal Records Office, Police Headquarters, Basseterre, St. Kitts or from the Divisional Police Headquarters, Charlestown, Nevis.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Criminal Records stamp/ White/ handwritten. Delivered in sealed envelope with three stamps over the opening.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Criminal Records Officer
Registration Criteria: Owner of the record
Procedure for Obtaining: Apply at the Criminal Records office
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Criminal records will accompany the police certificate for an additional ECD $50.00. Post notes that only police certificates in sealed envelopes should be accepted from the criminal records office. Frequently, “clean” certificates are issued in the same envelope as listed, but expunged convictions.
Military Records
Unavailable
Comments: St. Kitts and Nevis does not have an official records document. The Defense Force can verify over the phone or via letter: service dates and honorable/dishonorable discharge status.
Travel Documents
Available : Ordinary , Diplomatic and Official
Fees: The fees are ECD $250 for applicants 16 years and older and ECD$150 for applicants under 16 years
Document Name: Caribbean Community St. Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis Passport
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of National Security
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Machine Readable / ICAO compliant
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Passport Officer
Registration Criteria: Owner of the passport/ legal guardian for minors
Procedure for Obtaining: Apply for passport at Ministry of National Security, Passport Office, Basseterre, St Kitts
Alternate Documents: Travel Letter for emergency travel
Exceptions: None
Comments: Express service of 4 days processing time is available at an additional fee of ECD$100.00
Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available
Available from the vicar or priest of the parish where the baptism occurred.
Note: Not all churches issue this certificate. There may be a fee for this service.
Post Contact Information
Post Title: Bridgetown, Barbados (Embassy)
Address: Wildey Business Park, Wildey, St Michael, Barbados West Indies
Phone Number: 246-227-4000
Visa Services:
Comments / Additional Information: Immigrant visa and nonimmigrant visa applications for nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis are processed by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados.
Visa Services:
Immigrant visa and nonimmigrant visa applications for nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis are processed by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados.
Washington, DC (202) 686-2636 (202) 686-5740
New York, NY (212) 535-1234 (212) 535-5555 (212) 535-6854
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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