1. What is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a program that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without having to obtain a visa. The program applies to the 50 participating countries and certain territories including the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam.
2. What countries are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
The countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Republic of Korea ,San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.
3. How do I apply for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
You can apply for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by completing the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application. You can find the ESTA application on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
4. What documents do I need to provide for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) application?
For the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) application, you will need to provide a valid passport from one of the participating countries, and proof of your travel plans, such as round-trip tickets and hotel reservations. You may also need to provide proof of financial stability, such as bank statements or a letter of employment.
5. How long can I stay in the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), travelers can stay in the United States for up to 90 days without a visa.
6. Can I work or study while on a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) trip?
No, you cannot work or study while on a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) trip. The Visa Waiver Program is for visitors who are traveling to the United States for tourism or business purposes for 90 days or less. If you plan to work, study, or stay in the United States longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.
7. Do I need to get a visa if I am travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
Yes. The Visa Waiver Program requires visitors to obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel.
8. How long does it take to get an ESTA authorization?
Typically, it takes no more than 72 hours to get an ESTA authorization. The time can vary depending on the volume of applications being processed.
9. Can I renew my ESTA authorization after it expires?
Yes, you can renew your ESTA authorization after it expires. To do so, you must submit a new ESTA application to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
10. What information do I need to provide when applying for ESTA authorization?
When applying for ESTA authorization, you will need to provide your basic personal information such as name, date of birth, contact information, and passport information. You will also need to provide travel-related information such as the purpose of your trip, your destination country, and the length of your stay. Additionally, you will need to answer questions related to your background such as whether you have a criminal record or if you have visited certain countries in the past.
11. How much does it cost to apply for ESTA authorization?
The cost of applying for ESTA authorization is $14.
12. Can I get an expedited ESTA authorization?
No. ESTA authorization is normally granted or denied in seconds.
13. How can I update my ESTA information if my passport or other details have changed?
If your passport or other details have changed, you will need to submit a new ESTA application. You can do this through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. Upon completing the new application, you will be required to pay the applicable application fee.
14. What do I do if my ESTA application is denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you will need to apply for a visa through your local U.S. embassy or consulate.
15. Is there a way to check the status of my ESTA application?
Yes, you can check the status of your ESTA application online. To do so, you must go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and enter the passport information listed on your application form.
16. What security measures are in place to protect my personal information provided on my ESTA application?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State (DOS) have implemented a number of security measures to protect personal information provided on ESTA applications. These include the use of secure sockets layer (SSL) encryption technology, 128-bit encryption, firewalls, and other security measures to protect against unauthorized access, loss, misuse, and alteration of personal information. Additionally, all information submitted to ESTA is securely stored on servers located in the United States.
17. How often do I need to apply for a new ESTA authorization?
Your ESTA authorization is valid for two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You will need to apply for a new authorization if either of these conditions have been met.
18. Is there any way to expedite the ESTA authorization process?
No, there is no way to expedite the ESTA authorization process. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reviews the applications in the order they are received and makes a determination within 72 hours.
19. How can I contact the ESTA customer service team if I have questions about my application?
The ESTA customer service team can be contacted by email using the online form provided on the ESTA website: https://help.cbp.gov/app/ask/ or by phone at 877-227-5511 (TTY: 877-227-5511).
20. Are there any special requirements for travelers under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) due to COVID-19?
Yes. All travelers under the Visa Waiver Program must have a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their departure, or must have proof of recovery from the virus within 90 days of their travel. Additionally, all travelers under the VWP are required to complete and submit a travel health form prior to their departure.