Are you planning a trip to the United States for tourism purposes? If so, you may have heard of an authorization called ESTA. But what exactly is ESTA, and is it a Waiver for Tourism (WT)?
What is ESTA?
ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It’s an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows citizens or nationals of certain countries to travel to the US for business or tourism purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.
Is ESTA a WT Waiver?
No, ESTA is not a WT Waiver. A WT waiver is a document that allows travelers from some countries to enter the US without a visa or any other entry documentation apart from their passport. However, travelers who are eligible for the VWP still need an approved ESTA authorization before they can travel to the US.
Who Needs ESTA?
All citizens or nationals of VWP countries traveling to the US by air or sea need an approved ESTA before they can board their flight or ship. This includes children and infants, even if they are only transiting through the US.
- Exceptions: Citizens or nationals of VWP countries traveling by land do not need an approved ESTA.
- Countries: The list of VWP countries includes 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
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan (passport must include identity number)
- United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) (must have a biometric passport with an electronic chip)
The ESTA Application Process:
The ESTA application process is relatively straightforward. Travelers need to complete an online application form that includes personal and passport information. They will also need to answer a few questions related to their eligibility for the VWP.
After submitting the application, travelers are usually notified within minutes whether their ESTA has been approved or denied. However, in some cases, the notification may take up to 72 hours.
Note: It’s recommended that travelers apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before their departure date.
The Validity of ESTA:
An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that travelers can use their ESTA authorization for multiple trips to the US within its validity period.
However, if any of the traveler’s information changes during this period (such as a new passport or change of name), they will need to apply for a new ESTA authorization.
The Bottom Line:
In conclusion, ESTA is not a WT waiver but rather an authorization required by citizens or nationals of VWP countries traveling to the US by air or sea. Applying for an approved ESTA is a crucial step in planning your trip to the US for tourism purposes. So, make sure to apply for it in advance and enjoy your trip to America!
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