United States Travel Authorization
1. APPLY ONLINE
2. TRAVEL TO THE U.S.
3. IMMIGRATION
4. WELCOME TO THE U.S.
What is ESTA?
ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before they are allowed to board an airplane or cruise ship bound for the United States. Since January 12, 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program is required to hold an approved ESTA travel authorization.
Who Needs to Apply for ESTA?
All travelers entering the United States (by air or sea) under the Visa Waiver Program are required to hold a valid ESTA travel authorization. The purpose of the ESTA is to allow DHS to pre-screen all Visa Waiver Travelers before they leave their respective countries. U.S.-bound travelers are recommended to apply for a travel authorization at least 72 hours before departure.
What is the VWP?
Free ESTA Eligibility Test
Only citizens of the Visa Waiver Countries are allowed to apply for ESTA. It is essential to know if you qualify for ESTA before you submit your application. Use the drop-down menu to select your nationality and click on the *Submit* button.
Traveling to the USA with ESTA
What is the average time it takes to apply for ESTA?
Where can I apply to ESTA?
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
Who is eligible to apply for ESTA?
Apply online for ESTA
A valid passport is required for the traveler
The US has not charged the traveler with any criminal offenses
The traveler plans to visit the US for less than 90 days
- Business
- Commerce
- Travel
- Pleasure
- Vacation
- Transit
- Short study programs
ESTA cannot be used to search for a job in the USA. Studying in the USA under the Visa Waiver program is also not possible. Your application to enter the USA with the ESTA for extended stays of more than 90 days will be rejected, and you will not be able to apply for ESTA again.
The United States has an agreement in place with certain countries, and the ESTA application is only available to citizens of VWP member states. They can travel to the United States as tourists. You cannot apply if you are not a citizen from a country included in the agreement.
To enter the United States, you must meet these requirements
To avoid any unexpected situations on your arrival in the USA, you must familiarize yourself with the regulations before traveling to the US.First, you cannot bring an empty or low-powered battery on certain flights. You may have your mobile phone charged at any time. If you violate this rule, you may not be allowed to board the aircraft. You will need to complete Customs Form 6059B during the flight. This form is used to track any particular items brought into the country. The I-94 form is created when you pass through Border Control, and this form is not available on paper for travelers who arrive by air. It can be downloaded electronically.
The US Customs and Border Protection will review your documents, and a CBP officer will also perform the US-VISIT procedure. This involves taking your fingerprint and a photograph and verifying your identity using your biometric data. The US authorities are authorized to see details about your travel plans. You are advised to bring with you a copy of any travel documents. You may also need to provide documents proving your financial resources. After completing these steps, you will be processed by Customs.A valid passport must be carried with you on your entire trip, even on the day of departure. Some countries have exceptions to the rule. More information can be found on the CBP website. A visa is required if the traveler doesn’t have an ESTA travel authorization. Keep in mind that routine baggage and luggage checks are possible even if there is nothing to declare. Check the complete list at www.cbp.gov to ensure you don’t have anything to declare. You may be required to show your driver’s license, documentation, and proof of liability insurance if you are traveling by land from Canada or Mexico.
