What is a USA ESTA visa?
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a computerized system for authorizing travel of citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to the United States. This method is only valid when the citizens of VWP countries choose to travel to the United States by means of Air or Sea. Traveling by road to the United States does not require citizens to acquiesce an ESTA visa request. If you are not a citizen of VWP countries, you are required to have a proper Visa issued by the embassy or government to visit the United States.
Where and how to obtain ESTA visa?
The Department of Homeland Security, USA has a dedicated website where online applications of traveling personnel are taken and reviewed. Passengers are required to submit their ESTA visa applications 72 hours before their departure. For new applicants, there are certain conditions mentioned on the official website which dictate the following terms,
Who you must be!
• A citizen or eligible national of a Visa Waiver Program country.
• You must not be in possession of a Visitor’s Visa.
• Your travel must be less than 90 days.
• You are visiting the USA for Business or Leisure purposes.
• You are applying for Individual application for One and Group application for two or more people.
What you must have!
• A passport duly issued by a VWP country.
• A credit card or PayPal to pay the application fees ($14).
• Your contact details.
• If you are an employee, then provide an employment form (optional).
When to use it?
It is optimal for use when you are a citizen of VWP countries and have chosen to travel by Sea or Air. Its simple process and better service prove to be both cost-effective and time-saving.
Who is eligible for using ESTA visa services?
Citizens of VWP countries are the only eligible people at this moment to apply for an ESTA Visa. These countries include:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
Citizens of these countries may proceed to the official website to submit their ESTA requests.