Visa Waiver Program requirements and countries that are part of ESTA

By author | August 12, 2022 |

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations determines Visa Waiver Program requirements and countries that are part of ESTA. Check this post and discover how Wizard Visa can help you in this matter. Keep reading!

According to the DHS regulations, the Visa Waiver Program permits citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a Visa.

Which countries are qualified for Visa Waiver Program ESTA?

There are currently 40 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program:

  • Andorra (1991);
  • Australia (1996);
  • Austria (1991);
  • Belgium (1991);
  • Brunei (1993);
  • Chile (2014);
  • Croatia (2021);
  • Czech Republic (2008);
  • Denmark (1991);
  • Estonia (2008);
  • Finland (1991);
  • France (1989);
  • Germany (1989);
  • Greece (2010);
  • Hungary (2008);
  • Iceland (1991);
  • Ireland (1995);
  • Italy (1989);
  • Japan (1988);
  • Korea, Republic of (2008);
  • Latvia (2008);
  • Liechtenstein (1991);
  • Lithuania (2008);
  • Luxembourg (1991);
  • Malta (2008);
  • Monaco (1991);
  • Netherlands (1989);
  • New Zealand (1991);
  • Norway (1991);
  • Poland (2019);
  • Portugal (1999);
  • San Marino (1991);
  • Singapore (1999);
  • Slovakia (2008);
  • Slovenia (1997);
  • Spain (1991);
  • Sweden (1989);
  • Switzerland (1989);
  • Taiwan (2012);
  • United Kingdom** (1988);

However, the citizens of the new countries of Curacao, Bonaire, St Eustatius, Saba, and St Maarten (the former Netherlands Antilles) are not eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program if they are applying for admission with passports from these countries.

What does an ESTA visa cover?

According to DHS rules, travel under the Visa Waiver Program is restricted to travelers possessing passports with specified security features. Visa Waiver Program requirements are:

  • The passport must have a machine-readable zone on the biographic page;
  • The passport must be an electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information about the passport owner;
  • As of April 1, 2016, all travelers must have an e-passport to use the VWP.  An e-Passport, denoted by the symbol, is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip;

Moreover, e-Passports are issued by the proper passport issuing authority and must meet international standards for securing and storing information corresponding to the passport and bearer.

May I apply for a visa instead of using the VWP?

Yes, you may apply for a visitor (B) Visa if you prefer to do so or if you are not eligible for VWP travel. Additionally, you need to apply for a visa if you will be traveling on a private aircraft or other non-VWP-approved air or sea carrier. Also, is necessary to apply for a visa, if you intend to stay for a period of time superior to 90 days in the U.S.

How do I correct a mistake on my ESTA application?

In most cases, your ESTA will be valid for two years.  You also must obtain a new ESTA if you:

  • Receive a new passport (including an emergency or temporary passport);
  • Change your name;
  • Change your gender;
  • Change your country of citizenship;
  • Need to change your responses to any of the “yes” or “no” questions on the ESTA application;

New Passport ESTA Valid

In general, you must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the United States. That means each member of your family, including infants and children, must have his/her own valid passport.

Moreover, you must have an e-passport to use the VWP. An e-passport is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip. The chip can be scanned to match the identity of the traveler to the passport. E-Passports must be following standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

How long can I stay in USA with Visa Waiver Program?

Once ESTA is approved, you may only stay for up to 90 days at a time and there should be a reasonable amount of time between visits but there is no set requirement for how long you must wait between visits.

How many times can you visit the US in a year ESTA?

There is no limit on the number of times you may enter the U.S. under either ESTA. However, if reentering the U.S. using ESTA soon after staying for about 90 days, you can expect to be questioned by the immigration officer about the purpose of your visit.

To learn more about immigration services read our blog, contact us to get more information about ESTA and other topics. Wizard Visa offers the best service to help you become a US citizen!

Take advantage of our experience and let our team help you make your dream come true! Contact Us! We will help you plan for your future.

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