Traveling to the United States? If you are visiting for business or tourism as a citizen or national of one of almost 40 countries – including most of Europe, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea – you probably won’t need a U.S. visa. Under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), many visitors from these countries can stay in the U.S. for 90 days without a visa. However, you must meet a few basic requirements:
You must receive approval prior to your trip from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), an automated online application platform that determines eligibility for the VWP. An ESTA application can be approved in seconds, but it is recommended that you apply for ESTA authorization at least 72 hours before your intended departure. If you wish, your Jetex representative can apply for the ESTA on your behalf.
Most business and tourist activities are exempted from visa requirements under VWP. These include:
Business
• Consulting with associates
• Negotiating contracts
• Attending a convention or conference
• Taking (unpaid) short-term training
Tourism
• Vacationing
• Visiting friends or family
• Receiving medical treatment
• Attending a social event
• Participating in a sports, music, or other amateur gathering
• Attending an un-credited, recreational course of study
Generally, your passport must be valid for six months after the date of your intended departure from the U.S., but several countries that are parties to the VWP have agreements exempting their citizens from this rule. Read more about VWP exemptions here
Travel purposes not exempted from visa requirements include:
• Accredited study
• Employment
• Working members of foreign media
• Returning permanent residents
Enhanced Restrictions
As of 2015, some nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or are nationals of several countries in the Middle East or Africa are no longer eligible for the VWP. Your Jetex representative will be happy to help you if you have any questions about your ability to use the VWP.
Contact us today to organize your next trip.
Jetex Dubai
+971 4 2124000
info@jetex.com
Jetex Miami
+1 305 306 4000
itp@jetex.com
Got your visa sorted? Read more about Border Flight Exemptions in the U.S. or other permits and permissions required.
