1. What is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

The Visa Waiver Program is a program of the United States government that allows citizens of certain countries to enter and stay in the US for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. This program was established to promote tourism and commerce between the US and participating countries. Travelers under the VWP must apply for an electronic travel authorization (ESTA) before their trip and must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a valid passport and no criminal record.

2. Which countries are eligible for the VWP?

The following countries are currently eligible for the Visa Waiver Program:

1. Andorra
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Belgium
5. Brunei
6. Chile
7. Czech Republic
8. Denmark
9. Estonia
10. Finland
11. France
12. Germany
13 Greece
14 Hungary
15 Iceland
16 Ireland
17 Italy
18 Japan
19 Latvia
20 Liechtenstein
21 Lithuania
22 Luxembourg
23 Malta
24 Monaco
25 Netherlands (Holland)
26 New Zealand
27 Norway
28 Portugal.
29 San Marino.
30 Singapore.
31 Slovakia.
32 Slovenia.
33 South Korea.
34 Spain; Voroe Islands Miquelon, Jan Mayen, and Sweden

Please note that this list is subject to change and countries may be added or removed from the VWP at any time by the U.S. government.

3. Do I need a visa if I am from a country that is part of the VWP?

Yes, even if you are from a country that is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you will still need to obtain an approved travel authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to traveling to the United States. This is not a visa, but rather a pre-travel authorization that determines your eligibility to enter the US under the VWP. You can apply for ESTA online and it is valid for multiple trips within a two-year period or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

4. Can I enter the U.S. through any port of entry with the VWP?

No, you must enter through a designated port of entry. These include international airports and seaports that have border control facilities for travelers entering the U.S. under the VWP.

5. What are the requirements for entering under the VWP?

The requirements for entering under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) include:

1. Citizenship from one of the VWP countries: The traveler must hold a valid passport from a country that is part of the VWP. Some approved countries include:

– United Kingdom
– France
– Germany
– Australia
– Japan

2. ESTA approval: Before traveling, the traveler must apply and receive approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

3. Valid return or onward ticket: The traveler must have a round-trip or onward ticket already booked when entering the US.

4. Purpose of travel: Under the VWP, the traveler must be entering the US for business, pleasure, transit, or medical treatment purposes only.

5. Length of stay: The maximum duration of stay allowed under the VWP is 90 days.

6. Non-immigrant intent: The traveler must have no intention to immigrate to the US during their stay.

7. No previous visa denials: The individual must not have been denied a US visa in the past, or had a previous ESTA application rejected.

8. No criminal history: Individuals with certain criminal histories, including convictions related to drugs or moral turpitude may be ineligible to enter under the VWP.

It’s important to note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission into the US under the VWP. Upon arrival in the US, travelers will still need to go through customs and border patrol procedures and may be denied entry if they do not meet immigration requirements or if there are issues with their travel documents.

6. How long can I stay in the U.S. on the VWP?

The VWP allows visitors to stay in the U.S. for a maximum of 90 days per visit. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a tourist visa through the appropriate steps and procedures.

7. Can I extend my stay under the VWP?

Yes, the VWP allows individuals to extend their stay for an additional 30 days by filing an application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, this extension is only granted in cases of emergency or unforeseen circumstances and must be approved before the initial period of admission has expired. Additionally, individuals may not apply for a change of immigration status or work authorization while in the United States under the VWP.

8. Can I work or study in the U.S. under the VWP?

No, the VWP only allows for temporary stays in the U.S. for the purposes of tourism or business activities. You cannot work or study under this program. If you wish to work or study in the U.S., you will need to apply for a visa that specifically allows for those types of activities.

9. Do I need travel insurance for my trip to be eligible for the VWP?

Yes, travel insurance is not a requirement for the VWP, but it is highly recommended. In the event of unexpected situations such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, having travel insurance can provide you with coverage and peace of mind during your trip. Additionally, some countries may require proof of travel insurance in order to approve your visa or entry into their country. It is always best to check the specific requirements of your destination country before your trip.

10. Is there a fee for applying for the VWP?

Yes, there is a fee associated with applying for the VWP. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which is required for travelers entering under the VWP, charges a $14 USD fee per application. This fee is in addition to any applicable air travel fees or costs associated with obtaining necessary documents such as a passport.

11. Can I use an ESTA application instead of a visa if eligible for the VWP?

Yes, if you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you can use an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application instead of a visa. ESTA is an online application system that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes without a visa. However, please note that not all countries are eligible for the VWP and some may still require a visa to enter the US. It is important to check your eligibility before applying for an ESTA. Additionally, even if you are eligible for the VWP and have an approved ESTA, it does not guarantee entry into the US as final admission is determined by a Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.

12. Are there any restrictions on activities I can do while in the U.S. on the VWP?

There are some restrictions on activities that can be performed while in the U.S. on the VWP. Visitors cannot study for credit or participate in unpaid internships. They also cannot work or engage in any form of employment, including freelance work, even if it is for a foreign company. It is important to strictly adhere to these restrictions to avoid any issues with immigration authorities.

13. How far in advance should I apply for ESTA approval before my trip to the U.S.?

It is recommended to apply for ESTA approval at least 72 hours before your trip to the U.S. However, it is best to apply as early as possible in case of any unforeseen delays or issues with your application. It is also important to note that you cannot board a flight or enter the country without an approved ESTA, so make sure to apply well in advance of your departure date.

14.Can I travel to other countries while on a trip to enter and leave using my approved ESA through this program?

Yes, you can travel to other countries while on a trip using your approved ESA through this program. However, it is recommended that you check the specific requirements and laws of the country you are traveling to regarding ESAs before your trip. Additionally, you may be required to obtain additional documentation or notify the airline in advance if you plan on traveling with your ESA internationally. It is important to always adhere to the laws and regulations of each country, as they may differ from the guidelines set by the program for traveling domestically within the US.

15.How many times can I use my approved ESTA under this program?

You can use your approved ESTA multiple times within the period of validity, which is typically two years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Each time you travel to the United States, you will need to apply for a new ESTA authorization.

16.What happens if my ESTA application is denied?

If your ESTA application is denied, you will not be able to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. You may need to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in order to enter the country. The denial may also impact any future attempts to travel to the U.S., and you may be required to disclose the denial on future visa applications. It is important to understand the reason for the denial and address any potential issues before reapplying for an ESTA or visa.

17.Can I travel by land or sea using this program?

No, the program is specifically for air travel. It does not cover land or sea travel.

18.Do children also require their own ESTA application when traveling under this program?

Yes, each individual traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including children, must have their own approved ESTA application. This includes infants and minors listed on a parent or guardian’s passport. Every person must meet the requirements of the VWP and have an approved ESTA in order to travel to the United States without a visa.

19.What happens if my passport expires during my stay in the U.S.?

You must renew your passport as soon as possible. Your visa is only valid while your passport is valid. If your passport expires, you will need to apply for a new visa in order to continue your stay in the US. You should contact your embassy or consulate immediately to begin the renewal process.

20.How do changes in personal information affect my validity under this program?”

Changes in personal information, such as a change in name or address, may affect your validity under the program if they are not updated promptly. It is important to keep your personal information up to date so that the program can accurately track your eligibility and ensure that you receive all the benefits that you are entitled to. Failure to update personal information may result in delays or even disqualification from the program. It is your responsibility to inform the program of any changes in your personal information as soon as possible.