USA Visitor Visa FAQ
What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program allows eligible citizens or nationals of participating VWP countries to travel to the
United States for business or pleasure, for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.
What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)?
ESTA is an automated system implemented in 2009 by the Department of Homeland Security, ESTA serves as
a screening program prior to travel to evaluate applicants for U.S. travel eligibility and to check for any potential security risks. VWP travelers must have an approved ESTA with a valid passport in order to board a carrier for travel to the United States.
Who is required to have a travel authorization?
All VWP travelers, including children, are required to have an approved ESTA with a valid passport prior to
traveling to the United States by air or sea.
Do nationals or citizens of VWP countries who are only transiting the United States en route to another country also require an ESTA?
Yes. Eligible nationals or citizens of VWP countries are required to have a visa or an ESTA to transit the United States en route to another country.