Indonesian citizens who wish to travel abroad will usually need to apply for a visa. However, there are certain countries that have agreements with Indonesia that allow Indonesian passport holders to enter without a visa. One such agreement is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program is a program that allows citizens of certain countries to enter the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. The program was established to promote tourism and business between the United States and these countries.
Currently, there are 39 countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program, including Indonesia.
Who is eligible for the Visa Waiver Program?
To be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must:
- Be a citizen of a participating country
- Have a valid passport
- Intend to enter the United States for business or pleasure
- Plan to stay for no more than 90 days
- Have a return or onward ticket
If you meet these requirements, you can enter the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program.
How do I apply for the Visa Waiver Program?
To apply for the Visa Waiver Program, you must complete an online application form called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The ESTA application can be completed online and must be submitted at least 72 hours before your departure to the United States.
The application process is simple and straightforward. You will be asked to provide personal information such as your name, address, and passport number. You will also be asked about your travel plans and your eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program.
Once you have submitted your ESTA application, you will receive a response within minutes. If your application is approved, you will be authorized to travel to the United States without a visa.
What are the benefits of the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program offers several benefits to Indonesian passport holders who wish to travel to the United States:
- No need to apply for a visa, which can save time and money
- No need to attend a visa interview
- Allows for short-term travel to the United States
- Promotes tourism and business between Indonesia and the United States
What are the limitations of the Visa Waiver Program?
While the Visa Waiver Program offers many benefits, there are some limitations that you should be aware of:
- You can only stay in the United States for up to 90 days
- You cannot work or study in the United States while on the program
- You cannot change your status while in the United States
- You must have a return or onward ticket
If you plan to stay in the United States for more than 90 days, or if you plan to work or study in the United States, you will need to apply for a visa.
Conclusion
The Visa Waiver Program is a great option for Indonesian passport holders who wish to travel to the United States for short-term business or pleasure. By completing the ESTA application and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can enter the United States without a visa and enjoy the many benefits that the Visa Waiver Program has to offer.
However, it is important to remember the limitations of the program and to plan your travel accordingly. If you have any questions or concerns about the Visa Waiver Program, you can contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Jakarta for more information.
