The USA Visa Waiver Program and the ESTA
What is the USA Visa Waiver Program?
The USA Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a program that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. The VWP was established in 1986 and currently includes 38 countries. Citizens of these countries can travel to the US without a visa as long as they meet certain requirements.
In order to be eligible for the VWP, travelers must have a valid passport from one of the participating countries, an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and proof of return or onward travel. They must also be able to demonstrate that their visit is for business or pleasure purposes only and not for any other purpose such as study or employment.
What is the ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system used by citizens of VWP countries to apply for authorization to travel to the United States. All travelers who wish to enter the US under the VWP must obtain an ESTA before traveling.
The ESTA application process is quick and easy and can be completed online at USA ESTA. Applicants must provide basic information such as name, date of birth, passport number, and address. Once approved, an ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
How does it work?
Once you have obtained an ESTA, you will be able to travel freely within the US for up to 90 days without having to apply for a visa. Your ESTA will be electronically linked with your passport so that when you arrive at a US port of entry, your information will be checked against government databases.
If your information matches what is on file, you will be allowed entry into the US without further inspection. If there are any discrepancies between your information and what is on file, you may be denied entry or subjected to additional screening.
Conclusion
The USA Visa Waiver Program and the ESTA are two important documents that all travelers from VWP countries must have in order to enter the United States. The application process for both documents is quick and easy and can be done online in just a few minutes.
By obtaining an ESTA before traveling, you can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and that you will not encounter any problems when entering the US.