United States Visa RequirementsFor Trinidad and Tobago passport holders
Citizens of Trinidad and Tobago must obtain a B1/B2 visa before entering the United States. The US Embassy in Port of Spain processes applications, and the non-refundable $185 MRV fee and in-person interview are required.
Trinidad and Tobago passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply at the US Embassy in Port of Spain (15 Queen's Park West). Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your biometric and interview appointment. The fee is non-refundable.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background, taken within last 6 months
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled at the US Embassy website
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns showing ability to fund trip
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment proof
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended dates and purpose of travel to the US
Current Travel Situation
Trinidad and Tobago to United States: What You Need to Know
Trinidad and Tobago and the United States share significant economic and cultural ties, with energy exports (oil and natural gas) being a major component of their trade relationship. A large Trinidadian diaspora lives in the US, particularly in New York and Florida. Despite Trinidad and Tobago being a relatively prosperous Caribbean nation with English as the official language, it is not in the US Visa Waiver Program, so all citizens require a B1/B2 visa. Given the size of the Trinidadian community in the US, consular officers look carefully at ties to home country.
How to Get There
Caribbean Airlines, the flag carrier of Trinidad and Tobago, flies direct from Port of Spain (POS) to New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL). American Airlines also serves the POS-MIA route. Flight time to New York is approximately 4.5 hours and to Miami about 3 hours.
Money & Banking
The US uses the dollar. In the US, tipping is standard: 15 to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 for hotel porters. Credit cards are universally accepted and ATMs are widely available. Compared to Port of Spain, major US cities like New York and Miami are significantly more expensive. Budget at least $150 to $200 per day.
Practical Tips
Check current interview wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. The Port of Spain embassy serves multiple Caribbean nations, so appointments may be in demand. Demonstrate strong ties to Trinidad: stable employment, property ownership, bank accounts with sufficient funds, and family responsibilities. Being English-speaking makes the interview more straightforward. Dress professionally and bring all documents in an organized folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Trinidadian citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Trinidadian and Tobagonian passport holders must obtain a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visa before entering the United States. Trinidad and Tobago is not in the US Visa Waiver Program.
Where do Trinidadians apply for a US visa?
At the US Embassy in Port of Spain, located at 15 Queen's Park West. Complete DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your biometric and interview appointment through the embassy portal.
How much does the US visa cost for Trinidadians?
The non-refundable MRV fee is $185 USD. This must be paid before scheduling your interview and is not returned if denied.
What airlines fly from Trinidad to the United States?
Caribbean Airlines, the flag carrier of Trinidad and Tobago, flies direct from Port of Spain (POS) to New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL). American Airlines also serves POS-MIA. Flight time to New York is approximately 4.5 hours.
How do I strengthen my US visa application as a Trinidadian?
Document strong ties to Trinidad: formal employment with salary letter, property ownership, bank statements with consistent balances, and family ties. Given the large Trinidadian diaspora in the US, you must clearly demonstrate why you will return to Trinidad after your visit.
How long can Trinidadians stay in the United States on a tourist visa?
CBP determines your stay at the port of entry, typically up to 6 months. B1/B2 visas (if approved) are generally valid for 10 years with multiple entries.
Is there a reciprocity fee for Trinidad and Tobago US visa applicants?
The base MRV fee is $185. Reciprocity fees vary by nationality. Check the current fee schedule at travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html before applying, as fees can change.