Do Indian passport holders need a transit visa for New York (JFK)?

Transit visa needed

US airports have no international transit area, so every connecting passenger clears US immigration. You need a C-1 transit visa or a valid B1/B2 visitor visa.

For an airside connection at John F. Kennedy International Airport, United States: one ticket, bags checked through, onward flight to another country, no immigration.

Leaving the airport during the layover

Every connection already enters the US; to go sightseeing during the layover you need a B1/B2 visitor visa rather than a C-1.

Watch out

Even a one-hour connection between two international flights needs a US visa, and none of these passports can use ESTA.

Checked on 25 October 2026 against these sources. Transit rules change often, and the airline and the immigration authority have the final say, so confirm with your airline before you travel.

Check another layover

Other passports at New York

Other layovers for Indian passport holders

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