ESTA Application

Can I apply for a Visa instead of the VWP?

If you wish to apply for a visitor (B) visa, even if your eligibility for VWP travel is not met, you can. You must apply for a visa if you travel by private aircraft or any non-VWP-approved air or sea carrier. Check out the list of approved pages. You will need a visa if your stay is more than 90 days.

To apply for a U.S. visa, you will need to complete the appropriate visa application form, pay the required fees, and attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. The visa application process may involve providing supporting documents, such as a valid passport, financial records, and proof of the purpose of your travel.

Can I travel to the US border countries?

Yes, you can travel to the border countries of the United States while under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or with a valid U.S. visa. The VWP may admit you if you make a short visit to Canada, Mexico, or another nearby country. The VWP will generally allow you to be readmitted to the United States for the remaining 90 days after your arrival. Your total stay must not exceed 90 days, which includes the short trip. Visit the CBP website for more information. The US does not require citizens of VWP countries* to show proof of travel to another country* upon entry.

Additionally, it’s essential to comply with the regulations of the country you are visiting and ensure you have any necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and any required visas or permits for entry into the border country.

If you are traveling to the border countries for purposes other than tourism or business, such as to study or work, you may need to obtain the appropriate visa or permit from the country you plan to visit.

Can I use the USA ESTA application application to extend my stay in the United States?

No, you cannot use the ESTA application to extend your stay in the United States. The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is specifically designed for short-term visits under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows eligible citizens or nationals from participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days without a visa.

If you wish to extend your stay in the United States beyond the authorized 90 days or if you have already entered the United States under the VWP and need to extend your stay, you will need to explore other options.

To extend your stay, you must apply for a different type of visa, such as a tourist visa (B-2 visa), work visa (H-1B visa), or student visa (F-1 visa), depending on the purpose of your stay. Each visa category has its own eligibility requirements, application process, and associated fees.

Is it possible to enter the United States if my ESTA visa application form is approved?

Yes, if your ESTA form application is approved, it means you have obtained travel authorization to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). However, approval of your ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. It simply indicates that you meet the initial eligibility criteria for the VWP.

Upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, such as an airport or land border crossing, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will make the final determination regarding your admissibility into the country. They will conduct an inspection and may ask you questions regarding the purpose of your visit, your travel plans, and other relevant details.

During the inspection process, the CBP officer will review your passport, ESTA approval, and other supporting documents. They will assess your eligibility and compliance with U.S. immigration laws and regulations. If everything is in order and you satisfy the officer’s requirements, you will be granted entry into the United States.

However, it’s important to note that the final decision rests with the CBP officer, and they have the authority to deny entry even if you have an approved ESTA application for USA. It’s crucial to answer all questions truthfully and provide any requested documentation to facilitate a smooth entry process.

What happens if I'm traveling to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands

Brunei, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Nauru, New Zealand, Malaysia, South Korea, Papua New Guinea, Taiwan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom citizens can visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands without a visa. However, they will need to complete Form I-736 before traveling. Chinese citizens do not require a visa for temporary admission to the Northern Mariana Islands.