Traveling can be a wonderful experience, and if you are planning to visit the United States, you may need to apply for an ESTA visa waiver. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
What is ESTA?
ESTA is an online application system that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days. The purpose of ESTA is to enhance the security of the United States by pre-screening visitors before they arrive. ESTA is required for all travelers to the United States who are citizens of VWP countries.
Who can apply for an ESTA?
Citizens of VWP countries who plan to travel to the United States for business or tourism purposes can apply for an ESTA. The VWP currently includes 38 countries, including Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
How to apply for an ESTA?
To apply for an ESTA, you can visit the official ESTA website and complete an online application. The application requires you to provide personal and travel information, including your passport details and your travel itinerary. The application fee is $14 and must be paid by credit card. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a response within 72 hours.
How long is an ESTA valid for?
An ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can travel to the United States multiple times during the validity period, as long as each visit is for 90 days or less.
What happens if my ESTA is denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you may still be able to travel to the United States by applying for a visa. A denial of an ESTA does not necessarily mean that you are ineligible to travel to the United States, but it does mean that you will need to provide additional documentation to support your visa application.
What if I need to stay in the United States for more than 90 days?
If you need to stay in the United States for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. An ESTA is only valid for visits of up to 90 days.
Conclusion
If you are planning to travel to the United States for business or tourism purposes, an ESTA visa waiver may be required. The ESTA application process is simple and can be completed online. By obtaining an ESTA, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience to the United States.
