Passport & Visa
Most travelers to the United States must hold a valid visa and a passport that is valid six months longer than the intended visit. All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers will be required to have a machine-readable passport (MRP) in order to enter the United States without a visa.
Visitors planning to visit or attend a meeting will most likely apply for a B-1 visa. Visa applicants are advised to apply as soon as they decide to travel to the United States and at least 3 to 4 months in advance. As a standard part of the visa process, the State Department now requires that consular officers interview almost every applicant. Some consulates may have a long wait for an interview so applicants should contact the consulate to schedule an interview as early as possible. Contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for details on visa application procedures at that location.
ESTA - Latest information for VWP travelers
ESTA is a fully-automated, internet-based electronic system for screening Visa Waiver Program (VWP) passengers before they begin travel to the United States.
On August 1, 2008, ESTA was introduced on a voluntary basis via internet for citizens and eligible nationals of VWP countries to apply for advance authorization to travel to the United States under the VWP. Effective since January 12, 2009, ESTA is mandatory and all VWP travelers are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S. under the VWP.
International travelers who are seeking to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are now subject to enhanced security requirements and will be required to pay an administrative fee.
ESTA website is also available in Spanish, German, Dutch, French Italian, Swedish, Norwegian and other languages, please check: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/esta/.
More information can be found at:
Disclaimer
The information is provided as a courtesy but is subject to change. If you are uncertain of your personal status, please contact the US Bureau of Consular Affairs.
