The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a system used to determine visitor's eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) without a visa and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Travelers under VWP must have a approved ESTA authorization before boarding to a carrier. DHS and CBP recommends that you apply for ESTA authorization as soon as you know your traveling plan and at least 72 hours prior to boarding.
ESTA is not a visa but its mandatory for VWP travelers. A ESTA authorization is valid for two years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. And in the same way wish a visa, ESTA does not guarantee of admission to the U.S..
ESTA will ask you to provide:
- Passport information from a Visa Waiver Program country
- Email address
- Home address
- Phone number
- Emergency contact
- Application fee ($14)
- ID number (if applicable)
- Global Entry ID number (if applicable)
- Employee address and phone number (if applicable)
- U.S. point of contact (if applicable)
Who needs to apply for ESTA?
You need to apply for ESTA when all following situation apply to you:
- You are a citizen or eligible national from a Visa Waiver Program country
- You don't have a valid visa traveling to U.S.
- Your planing length of stay is for 90 days or less
- Your purpose of travel is for business or pleasure
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