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Update April 12, 2024

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

The Visa Waiver Program  (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries *  to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid  Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor (B) visa.

Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015

Under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, travelers in the following categories must obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United States as they are no longer eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.

Requirements for Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

You must meet  all  of the following requirements to travel to the United States on the VWP:

Travel Purpose Must be Permitted on a Visitor (B) Visa

The following are examples of activities permitted while in the United States on the VWP. In addition, transiting through the United States to other countries is generally permitted for VWP travelers.

• consult with business associates
• attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• attend short-term training (you may not be paid by any source in the United States with the exception of expenses incidental to your stay)
• negotiate a contract

Learn more about  Business Travel to the United States  (PDF - 362 KB).

• vacation (holiday)
• visit with friends or relatives
• medical treatment
• participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Learn more about  Visitor Visas - Business and Pleasure  (PDF - 510 KB).

Travel Purposes Not Permitted on Visa Waiver Program – Examples:

• study, for credit
• work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
• permanent residence in the United States

Must Be a Citizen or National of a VWP Designated Country *

You must be a citizen or national of the following countries *  to be eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP.

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom**

**To be eligible to travel under the VWP, British citizens must have the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.

Each Traveler Must Have a Valid ESTA

In order to travel without a visa on the VWP, you must have authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding a U.S. bound air or sea carrier. ESTA is a web-based system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to determine eligibility to travel under the VWP to the United States for tourism or business. Visit the  ESTA webpage  on the CBP website for more information.

Updating Your ESTA

In most cases, your ESTA will be valid for two years.  You also must obtain a new ESTA if you: (1) receive a new passport, including an emergency or temporary passport; (2) change your name; (3) change your gender; (4) change your country of citizenship; or (5) need to change your responses to any of the “yes” or “no” questions on the ESTA application.

These individuals can apply for visas using regular appointment processes at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  For those who require a visa for urgent travel to the United States, U.S. Embassies and Consulates stand ready to handle applications on an expedited basis.

If an individual who is exempt from the Act because of his or her diplomatic or military presence in one of the seven countries has his or her ESTA denied, he or she may go to the  CBP website , or contact the  CBP information Center . The traveler may also apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection strongly recommends that any traveler to the United States check his or her  ESTA status  prior to making any travel reservations or travelling to the United States. More information is available on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website . 

Have the Correct Type of Passport

You must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the United States (unless exempted by  country-specific agreements ). For families, each member of your family, including infants and children, must have his/her own passport. 

In addition, 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 in compliance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). You can readily identify an e-passport, by a symbol on the cover. See the example below. More information about e-passports is available on the DHS website .

Emergency and Temporary Passports

If you use an   emergency or temporary passport to enter the United States on the VWP, the passport must be an e-passport. This includes VWP travelers who are transiting the United States. 

More information on frequently asked questions about VWP can be found at the following websites:

• DHS Visa Waiver Program Requirements
• CBP Visa Waiver Program

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. Review the  approved carriers list . Also, if you intend to stay longer than 90 days, then you need to apply for a visa. 

I was denied a visa under section 214(b). May I use the VWP?

A recent visa refusal for any reason could result in denial of ESTA authorization, additional review at the port of entry, or denial of admission to the United States. If you are uncertain if you qualify for VWP travel, you may  apply for a visa.

Trips to Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands

If you are admitted to the United States under the VWP, you may take a short trip to Canada, Mexico, or a nearby island and generally be readmitted to the United States under the VWP for the remainder of the original 90 days granted upon your initial arrival in the United States. Therefore, the length of time of your total stay, including the short trip, must be 90 days or less. See the  CBP website . Citizens of VWP countries *  who reside in Mexico, Canada, or a nearby island are generally exempted from the requirement to show onward travel to another country *  when entering the United States. Learn more on the  CBP website .

How can a country* join the VWP?

A country *  must meet various requirements to be considered for designation in the Visa Waiver Program. Requirements include, but are not limited to:

• enhanced law enforcement and security-related data sharing with the United States;
• issuing e-passports;
• having a visitor (B) visa refusal rate of less than three percent;
• timely reporting of both blank and issued lost and stolen passports; and
• maintenance of high counterterrorism, law enforcement, border control, and document security standards.

Designation as a VWP country *  is at the discretion of the U.S. government. Meeting the objective requirements of the VWP does not guarantee a country *  will receive VWP designation.

Entering the United States

An approved ESTA allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States, but an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. Learn more on the  CBP website .

Extending your stay

If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to extend your stay in the United States beyond the initial admission period. You must depart the United States on or before the date on your admission stamp when you entered the United States. See Extend Your Stay on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website .

Change of status

If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to change status in the United States. See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

What if I am traveling to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands?

Citizens of Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and the United Kingdom do not need a visa or ESTA to visit both Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands because of the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, though they must complete Form I-736 prior to travel.  People's Republic of China Passport holders also do not need a visa if they complete Form I-736 for temporary admission into the Northern Mariana Islands. For more information on the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program,  click here

* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” on this page, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

More Information

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• Transportation Security
• Visa Waiver Program

U.S. Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP), administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in consultation with the State Department, permits citizens of 41 countries [1] to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.  In return, those 41 countries must permit U.S. citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes.  Since its inception in 1986, the VWP has evolved into a comprehensive security partnership with many of America’s closest allies.  The VWP utilizes a risk-based, multi-layered approach to detect and prevent terrorists, serious criminals, and other mala fide actors from traveling to the United States. This approach incorporates regular, national-level risk assessments concerning the impact of each program country’s participation in the VWP on U.S. national security and law enforcement interests.  It also includes comprehensive vetting of individual VWP travelers prior to their departure for the United States, upon arrival at U.S. ports of entry, and during any subsequent air travel within the United States.

• Visa Waiver Program Requirements
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

Economic Benefits

A strong and vibrant economy is essential to our national security. The United States welcomed approximately 20 million VWP travelers in FY 2014 who, according to the Department of Commerce, spent approximately $84 billion on goods and services.  VWP travelers injected nearly $231 million a day into local economies across the country.

Initial and Continuing Designation Requirements

The eligibility requirements for a country’s designation in the VWP are defined in  Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act  as amended by the  Secure Travel and Counterterrorism Partnership Act of 2007 .  Pursuant to existing statute, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, may designate into the VWP a country that:

• Has an annual nonimmigrant visitor visa (i.e., B visa) refusal rate of less than three percent, or a lower average percentage over the previous two fiscal years;
• Accepts the repatriation of its citizens, former citizens, and nationals ordered removed from the United States within three weeks of the final order of removal;
• Enters into an agreement to report lost and stolen passport information to the United States via INTERPOL or other means designated by the Secretary;
• Enters into an agreement with the United States to share terrorism and serious criminal information;
• Issues electronic, machine-readable passports with biometric identifiers;
• Undergoes a DHS-led evaluation of the effects of the country’s VWP designation on the security, law enforcement, and immigration enforcement interests of the United States; and
• Undergoes, in conjunction with the DHS-led evaluation, an independent intelligence assessment produced by the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis (on behalf of the Director of National Intelligence).

National-Level Risk Assessments

After designation in the VWP, countries must maintain high and consistent security standards.  DHS, in consultation with the State Department, is statutorily required to conduct reviews of the effects of each VWP country’s designation in the program on U.S. national security, law enforcement, and immigration interests at least once every two years.  During the review process, DHS assesses VWP countries’ counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, passport security, and border management capabilities.  DHS collects information from the government of the VWP country under review, the U.S. diplomatic mission in that country, the Departments of State and Justice, the U.S. Intelligence Community, and other sources.  Many reviews also include operational site inspections of airports, seaports, land borders, and passport production and issuance facilities in VWP countries.

In addition to the biennial review process, DHS continuously monitors all VWP countries to ensure that their continued designation in the VWP will not adversely affect the security of the United States.  Continuous monitoring allows DHS to react rapidly to evolving security threats.  The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, has statutory authority to immediately terminate or suspend a country’s designation in the VWP without notice if there is a credible threat originating from that country which poses an imminent danger to the United States or its citizens.

Following the conclusion of every review, DHS, in consultation with the State Department, provides a report to Congress regarding the assessment results and designation determination. 

Comprehensive Traveler Vetting

In addition to national-level risk assessments, DHS conducts targeted, individualized vetting of all VWP travelers at various points throughout the travel continuum.  The Department requires all prospective VWP travelers to obtain pre-travel authorization via U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding a plane or ship bound for the United States.  DHS coordinates with the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) to vet ESTA applications to ensure that travel authorizations are not issued to individuals who pose a threat to national security.  In November 2014, DHS began requiring ESTA applicants to provide additional information to further enhance its ability to identify applicants on the U.S. terrorist watchlist. 

DHS automatically screens all ESTA information against numerous U.S. law enforcement and counterterrorism databases, as well as INTERPOL databases, while upholding strict privacy standards.  DHS recurrently vets ESTA data on a daily basis to ensure that we are taking advantage of the latest law enforcement and intelligence information.  CBP carefully evaluates any ESTA check that raises a counterterrorism concern. Since ESTA’s inception in 2008, CBP has denied several thousand ESTA applications as a result of vetting against the U.S. Government’s terrorist watchlist. The enhanced ESTA requirements implemented in November have already resulted in demonstrable security benefits.

In addition, U.S. law requires commercial air and sea carriers operating flights to, from, or through the United States to provide Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Records (PNR) to CBP.  This information includes travelers’ biographic and travel reservation information. CBP screens this data against U.S. and international law enforcement and counterterrorism databases to identify high-risk individuals before they depart for the United States and when they travel by air within the United States.  All VWP travelers are subject to this vetting.

Mutually-Reinforcing Security Criteria

The statutory requirement that VWP countries sign information sharing agreements with the United States pertaining to known and suspected terrorists, serious criminals, and lost and stolen passports enhances our vetting of individual travelers.  VWP countries have provided the United States with information on more than 6,000 known or suspected terrorists as a result of VWP information sharing arrangements. This information exchange augments the already strong information exchange between the United States and VWP countries’ security services.  Moreover, VWP countries have provided nearly 70 percent of the records in INTERPOL’s Stolen and Lost Travel Document Database, which DHS utilizes in its daily vetting of ESTA applications and Advance Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record data. [2]   This information significantly bolsters DHS’s ability to identify and disrupt the travel of terrorists, serious criminals, and other  mala fide  actors who pose a threat to U.S. security.

Visa Waiver Program Enhancements

DHS continuously adapts VWP to address current threats.  In August 2015, DHS introduced a number of additional security enhancements to the VWP, including enhanced traveler vetting, information sharing, and other security requirements for VWP countries to address the threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters. 

Specifically, the 2015 VWP enhancements include:

• Implementation of the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 6 (HSPD-6) and Preventing and Combating Serious Crime (PCSC) agreements that VWP countries have signed relating to the sharing of criminal and terrorist information;
• Use of e-passports for all VWP travelers, regardless of the passport’s date of issuance and of the date of the country’s designation in the VWP [NOTE: currently, citizens of the 27 countries designated into the VWP before 2007 may use a machine-readable non-biometric passport if that passport was issued before October 26, 2006 and is still valid];
• For VWP countries with a last point of departure to the United States, the conclusion of a federal air marshal agreement;
• Collection and Analysis of Travel Data (API/PNR), consistent with UN Security Council Resolution 2178;
• Use of INTERPOL Lost and Stolen Passport Database to screen travelers crossing a VWP country’s borders (or, for Schengen Member States, entering or exiting the Schengen area);
• Reporting of Foreign Fighters to multilateral security organizations such as INTERPOL or EUROPOL; and
• Cooperation with the United States in the screening of refugees and asylum seekers.

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. 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.   

More information  can be found on CBP.gov .

DHS and the Department of State are working with VWP countries to implement the new requirements, which will strengthen U.S. security and the security of our partners.

The Visa Waiver Program is a rigorous security partnership that promotes secure travel to the United States, while also facilitating Americans’ travel to VWP partner nations.  No other program enables the U.S. Government to conduct such broad and consequential assessments of foreign security standards and operations.  DHS will continue to strengthen its efforts to ensure that VWP provides for the security and prosperity of the American people.

[1] With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” in this document, the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

[2] INTERPOL ASF-SLTD Statistics, October 11, 2015

• Travel Security
• Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

To enter the U.S., you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship along with your visa. Officials at your port of entry into the U.S. will also issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94 and how to apply .

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check to see if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visa

The visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa, is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

How to renew a visitor visa

You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S.

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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WB Temporary Business Visitor under Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables nationals of 41 participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Nationals of VWP countries must meet eligibility requirements to travel without a visa on the VWP. VWP travelers are required to have a valid authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before travelling. Travelers are screened at the port of entry into the United States and are enrolled in the Department of Homeland Security’s US-VISIT program .

For information about the Visa Waiver Program, see the Department of State’s Visa Waiver Program.  Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also provides answers to Frequently Asked Questions on the Visa Waiver Program, see CBP’s FAQs About the Visa Waiver Program.

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• For International Visitors
• Visa Waiver Program
• Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act FAQs

Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act Frequently Asked Questions

What is the visa waiver program.

The VWP permits citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. In return, those countries must permit U.S. citizens and nationals to travel to their countries for a similar length of time without a visa for business or tourism purposes.

Since its inception in 1986, the VWP has evolved into a comprehensive security partnership with many of America’s closest allies. The VWP, administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the State Department, utilizes a risk-based, multi-layered approach to detect and prevent terrorists, serious criminals, and other mala fide actors from traveling to the United States. This approach incorporates regular, national-level risk assessments concerning the impact of each program country’s participation in the VWP on U.S. national security and law enforcement interests. It also includes comprehensive vetting of individual VWP travelers prior to their departure for the United States, upon arrival at U.S. ports of entry, and during any subsequent air travel within the United States, among other things. Please visit the ESTA FAQ page for more information.

How does VWP travel work? What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)?

All prospective VWP travelers must obtain pre-travel authorization via U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) ESTA system prior to boarding a plane or ship bound for the United States.

Citizens and nationals of VWP countries can apply for an ESTA on CBP’s website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov .  ESTA is used to determine eligibility to travel without a visa to the United States under the VWP. Travelers who do not receive an approved ESTA must apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to travel to the United States.  Although an approved ESTA is generally valid for a period of two years, travelers should check their ESTA status on CBP’s website prior to travel.

Individuals who do not receive ESTA approval are not barred from traveling to the United States. They may still apply for a visa for travel to the United States at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

What is the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015? Why is it necessary to once again expand the amount of ESTA information being collected from VWP travelers?

On December 18, 2015, the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015 (the Act) became law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2016 . The Act, among other things, established new eligibility requirements for travel under the VWP. These new eligibility requirements do not bar travel to the United States. Instead, a traveler who does not meet the requirements must obtain a visa for travel to the United States, which generally includes an in-person interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

DHS has updated the ESTA application with additional questions to address the new eligibility requirements under the Act.

What are the new eligibility requirements for VWP travel?

Under the Act, travelers in the following categories are no longer eligible to travel or be admitted to the United States, without a waiver, under the VWP:

• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Iraq, North Korea, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen at any time on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions); and
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Iraq, Syria, Iran, North Korea or Sudan.

These restrictions do not apply to VWP travelers whose presence in Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, Cuba, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen was to perform military service in the armed forces of a program country, or in order to carry out official duties as a full-time employee of the government of a program country.  We recommend those individuals who have traveled to one or more of the seven countries listed above for military/official purposes bring with them appropriate documentation when traveling through a U.S. port of entry.  However, these exceptions do not apply to the restriction for dual nationals of one of the subject countries (“dual national restriction”). 

The vast majority of VWP-eligible travelers will not be affected by the new Act. New countries may be added to this list by designation of the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Are there any exceptions or waivers to the new eligibility requirements?

Yes. If you have traveled to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen to represent your program country on official military orders or official government business, you may fall within an established exception to the new eligibility requirements.  However, these exceptions do not apply to the restriction for dual nationals of one of the subject countries (“dual national restriction”). 

The Department of Homeland Security may waive these travel-related VWP restrictions if it determines that such a waiver is in the law enforcement or national security interests of the United States.  Such waivers may only be granted on a case-by-case basis.

What do I do if I fall under one of the VWP travel restrictions under the new Act?

The restrictions do not bar travel to the United States, but they do require a traveler covered by the restrictions in the law to obtain a visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Most U.S. Embassies and Consulates in VWP partner countries and worldwide have short wait times for visa interviews.  Please visit travel.state.gov for general visa information or usembassy.gov to find the website of the Embassy that has jurisdiction over your residence.

If you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa after ESTA denial or revocation as a result of the Act and have imminent travel for business, medical, or humanitarian purposes to the United States, you may request an expedited visa appointment.

Visas have some advantages over the ESTA, including validity for up to 10 years versus a general two years validity for ESTA, and the option to stay in the United States for up to six months at a time, as opposed to up to 90 days under the VWP.  Visa travelers generally may also extend their stay beyond six months or seek to change to a different visa class while in the United States, neither of which is allowed under the VWP.

What additional questions were added to the ESTA application in February 2016?

The additional/modified questions were:

• Have you traveled to, or been present in, Iraq, Syria, Iran, or Sudan on or after March 1, 2011?
• Have you ever been issued a passport (or national identity card for travel) by any other country?
• Are you now a citizen or national of any other country?
• Have you ever been a citizen or national of any other country?

Based on responses to the above questions, ESTA applicants may be directed to answer additional questions concerning travel to Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Sudan and potential dual nationality.

What new eligibility requirements for VWP travel were added to the ESTA application in June 2016?

Under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015 (the Act), and DHS’s implementation of it, nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to, or been present in, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, are no longer eligible for travel or admission to the United States under the VWP.

This restriction does not apply to VWP travelers whose presence in Libya, Somalia, or Yemen was to perform military service in the armed forces of a program country, or in order to carry out official duties as a full-time employee of the government of a program country.  We recommend those individuals who have traveled to one or more of the three countries listed above for military/official purposes bring appropriate documentation with them when traveling through a U.S. port of entry.

The vast majority of VWP-eligible travelers will not be affected by these additional restrictions made under the Act. 

What additional questions were added to the ESTA application in June 2016?

• Have you traveled to, or been present in, Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011?
• CBP Global Entry program number, if applicable.

Are there other countries that I have traveled to that might impact VWP travel?

Yes. On February 18, 2016, DHS announced that it is continuing its implementation of the Act with the addition of Libya, Somalia, and Yemen as three countries of concern, limiting VWP travel for certain individuals who have traveled to these countries. DHS continues to consult with the Department of State and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to determine whether other countries should be added to this list.

What was the additional question added to the ESTA application in October 2016?

DHS added the following optional question to ESTA and to Form I-94W:

• “Please enter information associated with your online presence Provider/Platform- Social media identifier.”

The question is clearly marked as “optional” on the revised ESTA application. If an applicant does not answer the question or simply does not hold a social media account, the ESTA application can still be submitted without a negative interpretation or inference. No ESTA application is guaranteed approval, and an application can be denied for a variety of reasons.

How will CBP use my social media information collected through the additional questions being added to the ESTA application in October 2016?

Information found in social media will enhance the vetting process and may be used to review ESTA applications to validate legitimate travel, adjudicate VWP ineligibility waivers, and identify potential threats. If you choose to answer these questions and an initial vetting by CBP indicates possible information of concern or a need to further validate information, a highly trained CBP officer will have timely visibility of the publicly available information on those platforms, consistent with the privacy settings the applicant has chosen to adopt for those platforms, along with other information and tools CBP officers regularly use in the performance of their duties. 

For example, social media may be used to support or corroborate a traveler’s application information, which will help facilitate legitimate travel by providing an additional means to adjudicate issues related to relevant questions about identity, occupation, previous travel, and other factors. It may also be used to identify potential deception or fraud.  Social media may help distinguish individuals of additional concern from those individuals whose information substantiates their eligibility for travel.

DHS will handle social media identifiers in the same manner as other information collected through ESTA. DHS has documented these procedures in the updated ESTA System of Records Notice (SORN) and Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA), which are available on the DHS website ( http://www.dhs.gov/topic/privacy ). 

Do I have to answer the new questions if the provisions of the new Act do not apply to me?

Yes. All ESTA applicants must complete all non-optional fields on the ESTA application. 

The social media question is optional.  The ESTA application will clearly inform the applicant that answering it is optional.

Is there a mechanism to inform all current ESTA holders (not just those who have previously indicated holding dual nationality) of the new requirements to prevent misunderstandings and complications?

CBP continues to engage with the Departments of State and Commerce in outreach to the public.  CBP and the Department of State also post new information and frequently asked questions on their websites, http://www.cbp.gov and travel.state.gov .

We strongly urge all travelers to acquire an ESTA authorization or a valid U.S. visa prior to making travel reservations.  If you are concerned about your ESTA status, please go to https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov to verify.  All travelers should verify their ESTA status prior to traveling.

Are there any waivers to the new eligibility requirements?

Yes, under the new Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security may waive these new travel-related VWP restrictions if the Secretary determines that such a waiver is in the law enforcement or national security interests of the United States.  Such waivers will be granted only on a case-by-case basis.

How do I obtain a waiver if I think I am eligible for one? How do I obtain a waiver if my ESTA is denied or revoked?

You do not apply separately for a waiver. Travelers can apply for an ESTA and whether they are eligible for a waiver will be determined on a case-by-case basis as part of the ESTA process, consistent with the terms of the law.  

If you wish to travel to the United States and your ESTA is denied or revoked, you must apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to travel to the United States.  If you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa after an ESTA denial or revocation as a result of the new Act and have imminent travel for business, medical, or humanitarian purposes to the United States, you may request an expedited visa appointment. We suggest that you retain a copy of any ESTA denial or revocation; it may be requested in order to schedule an expedited appointment.

How will the public be notified of ESTA changes?

All changes to the ESTA process will be announced on CBP’s website, www.cbp.gov .  Please keep up to date via the website for all ESTA changes. Travelers whose ESTA status has changed as a result of these new eligibility requirements will be notified via the email address provided in the applicant’s ESTA application. We strongly encourage all travelers to verify their ESTA status and update appropriate contact information prior to traveling to the United States.

Additionally, all changes to the ESTA form go through notice (in the Federal Register) and public comment under the Paperwork Reduction Act and are available on reginfo.gov under OMB Control Number 1651-0111. The public is invited to provide CBP with feedback during the public comment periods that accompany each change to the form.  DHS will provide notice to the public through an update to the ESTA SORN and Privacy Impact Assessment prior to changing the ESTA application.

Will everyone—including those with no ties to Iraq, Syria, Iran, or Sudan, or no prior travel to Libya, Somalia, or Yemen—have to reapply and update their ESTA applications?

No.  If you are not covered by the new eligibility requirements of the Act and you have not had your ESTA revoked, you do not have to reapply for a new ESTA authorization until your current one expires.  CBP recommends that you check the status of your ESTA authorization prior to making a reservation to travel to the United States and prior to your actual travel.

However, if you have traveled to one of the seven countries covered by the new eligibility requirements on or after March 1, 2011, CBP recommends that you do apply for a new ESTA authorization to help facilitate your travel to the United States, or apply for a visa.

How is “dual citizen” or “dual national” defined? What if I was born in a country, but never lived there and do not consider myself a national or citizen?

We will make nationality determinations in accordance with U.S. legal standards and practices, not merely by reference to the laws and practices of foreign governments.  If an individual believes that he or she is eligible for an ESTA travel authorization, the individual should apply for an ESTA and answer all questions truthfully and accurately. An individual’s eligibility for an ESTA authorization is determined in accordance with U.S. law. If you have any questions, please contact CBP at 1-202-325-8000.

How is a government official defined?

A government official is an individual performing official duties or services for the government of a VWP country.

Will guidance be provided as to what documents are necessary to prove an individual falls under an exception (military/official) from the new Act?

During the admissions process, CBP will review any documents presented at a port of entry that demonstrate a VWP traveler meets the official government or military exceptions under the new Act. Travelers are recommended to bring certain documentation with them when they travel to the United States, including but not limited to, travel orders, official or diplomatic visas, or an official letter from a VWP country government entity, if available. Travelers may also be asked questions about their travel during the admissions process.

What is the Global Entry Program?

Global Entry is a CBP program (separate from ESTA) that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States using automatic kiosks at select airports.

Travelers can apply for Global Entry at www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry .

How will CBP use my Global Entry information?

Travelers who are members of CBP’s Global Entry program have been extensively vetted by CBP.  If an applicant is a Global Entry member, he/she has already voluntarily given CBP additional information including his/her fingerprints, photograph and travel history, and been interviewed by a CBP Officer. That additional information can be used in adjudicating the traveler’s application for an ESTA.  

Will the ESTA fee increase with these changes to the application?

There is no plan to increase the ESTA fee when the changes take effect. Travelers who apply for a new ESTA through the enhanced system will be charged the standard ESTA fee.

Will there be fee waivers for individuals whose ESTAs were denied/revoked and now have to apply for a nonimmigrant visa?

No. DHS does not have the legal authority to waive the ESTA fee. The fee is a processing fee per application.  Travelers who apply for visas will be required to pay the associated visa processing fee.

How will the new information collected be used?

DHS will handle the new information in the same manner as other information collected through ESTA and will document these procedures in the SORN and PIA. As before, DHS will screen intending VWP travelers to determine their eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP.  The additional questions will be used to help CBP personnel determine whether applicants are eligible for travel and admission to the United States under the VWP.

Will DHS share the new ESTA information outside of DHS?

The information collected by and maintained in ESTA may be used by other components of DHS on a strictly need-to-know basis consistent with the component's mission.

Under current agreements between DHS and the Department of State (DOS), information submitted during an ESTA application may be shared with consular officers of DOS to assist them in determining whether a visa should be issued to an applicant after an ESTA travel authorization application has been denied.

Information may be shared with appropriate federal, state, local, tribal, and foreign governmental agencies or multilateral governmental organizations responsible for investigating or prosecuting the violations of, or for enforcing or implementing, a statute, rule, regulation, order or license, or where DHS believes information would assist enforcement of civil or criminal laws.

Additionally, information may be shared when DHS reasonably believes such use will assist in anti-terrorism efforts or intelligence gathering related to national or international security or transnational crime.  All sharing, including the sharing mentioned above, will remain consistent with the ESTA SORN, which was last published in the Federal Register on September 2, 2016.  All DHS SORNs are available on the DHS web site: https://www.dhs.gov/topic/privacy .

Although carriers will not receive the ESTA application information that travelers provide to DHS, they will receive confirmation of a passenger's ESTA status via the Advance Passenger Information System indicating whether an ESTA is required and whether authorization has been granted.

How long will DHS retain the data generated from these additional ESTA questions?

The data retention period remains unchanged.  ESTA application data remains active for the period of time that the approved ESTA is valid, which is generally two years, or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.  DHS then maintains this information for an additional year, after which it is archived for 12 years—with further limited access—to allow retrieval of the information for law enforcement, national security, or investigatory purposes.  These policies are consistent with both CBP’s search authority and with the border security mission mandated for CBP by Congress.  Data linked to active law enforcement lookout records, CBP matches to enforcement activities, and/or investigations or cases, including applications for ESTAs that are denied, will remain accessible for the life of the law enforcement activities to which they are related.

How will the new information collected be safeguarded?

CBP remains committed to protecting the privacy and civil rights and civil liberties of all travelers. CBP will handle the new information in the same manner as other information collected through ESTA and has documented these procedures in the SORN and PIA.  Information submitted by applicants through the ESTA website will continue to be subject to the same strict privacy provisions, use limitations, and access controls that are currently in place for ESTA, and consistent with similar traveler screening programs.

Why is DHS taking action under a Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) notice?

The revisions to the ESTA data elements fall under the PRA since DHS is amending an information collection.

Will this change to the ESTA application discourage legitimate foreign national travelers?

No.  The new VWP eligibility requirements do not bar legitimate travel to the United States.  If a traveler is not granted an ESTA, the traveler will need to obtain a U.S. visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

DHS is committed to facilitating legitimate trade and travel while maintaining the highest standards of security and border protection.  Requirements for travel to the United States have increased, especially since September 11, 2001, to enhance security at U.S. borders; however, the flow of goods and visitors into the United States continues to grow each year.

By adding these additional questions, will the ESTA now be the equivalent of an electronic visa?

No. The requirements for a nonimmigrant visitor (B1/B2) visa are different under U.S. law and more complex than the requirements for an ESTA.  Applicants for a B1/B2 visa must complete an online visa application (DS-160) and, with limited exception, appear for an interview with a U.S. consular officer. Part of the visa application process requires that applicants submit their biometric information in advance of travel and provide additional biographic information as required.

Aside from these additional ESTA questions, how does VWP safeguard U.S. security?

Countries that participate in the VWP are required to have a high degree of security cooperation with the United States, such as signing and implementing information sharing agreements regarding known, suspected or potential terrorists and serious criminals; reporting lost and stolen passport data to Interpol or via other means approved by the United States; and issuing International Civil Aviation Organization-compliant electronic passports.  VWP countries are also subject to biennial eligibility reviews, which provide DHS with the opportunity to conduct broad and consequential inspections of foreign security standards and operations, and verify the level of law enforcement and counterterrorism cooperation with the United States.  The Director of National Intelligence is required to complete an intelligence assessment to support each eligibility review conducted by DHS.

VWP travelers must obtain approval through the ESTA process prior to commencing VWP travel to the United States.  ESTA continuously vets applicants’ biographic information against the Terrorist Screening Database; lost and stolen passport records (including INTERPOL’s Stolen and Lost Travel Documents database); visa revocations; previous VWP refusals; expedited removals; and Public Health records (e.g., records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for persons who have a communicable disease constituting a public health threat).

Is VWP travel at the land border affected by the Act?

The new eligibility requirements apply to all VWP applicants regardless of mode of entry. If you do not meet one of the new eligibility requirements established by the Act, you are ineligible for travel and admission to the United States under the VWP. You will be required to obtain a nonimmigrant visa. Waivers for a respondent’s travel history will not be adjudicated at the border through the I-94W.

Are there new passport requirements for travel to the United States under the VWP?

Yes. Effective April 1, 2016, all VWP country nationals must possess an electronic passport to travel to the United States under the VWP. If not in possession of an electronic passport, a valid nonimmigrant visa is required to travel to the United States.

How does Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism impact my travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program?

The U.S. Department of State designated Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SST) on January 12, 2021.With limited exceptions, a traveler who is found to have visited Cuba on or after this date is not eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) using an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and must apply for a visa to travel to the United States. Additionally, a traveler who at the time of application for an ESTA holds dual nationality with both a VWP country and Cuba is not eligible for travel under the VWP using an ESTA and must apply for a visa to travel to the United States.

If an ESTA has already been approved and it is later determined that the traveler has been present in Cuba or holds dual nationality with both a VWP country and Cuba, the ESTA will be revoked. Ineligibility for an ESTA is not a bar to travel to the United States. Individuals who are not eligible to travel under the VWP may apply for a visa at any U.S. embassy or consulate.

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Electronic system for travel authorization (esta), ineligibility, esta refusal, applicants from canada, mexico and bermuda, more information.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables nationals of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business (visitor visa purposes) for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Not all countries participate in the VWP, and not all travelers from VWP countries are eligible to use the program. VWP travelers are required to apply for authorization though the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) , are screened at their port of entry into the United States, and are enrolled in the Department of Homeland Security’s OBIM program .

Nationals of member countries can travel without a visa for tourist and business travel of 90 days or less provided they meet the following requirements:

• Possess a passport with an integrated chip ( e-passport )
• Register on-line through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
• Meet the standard VWP conditions mentioned below

For citizens of Canada, Mexico, and British Overseas Territories of Bermuda, please visit State Department's Travel website.

* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” on this page, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

To enter the U.S. on the Visa Waiver Program, travelers must be:

• Be a citizen of one of the countries listed above, and in possession of a VWP-compliant passport.
• Possess the ESTA authorization.
• Stay in the U.S. for 90 days or less.
• Plan to travel for: a. Business - The purpose for your planned travel is to consult with business associates, travel for a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or conference on specific dates, settle an estate, or negotiate a contract. b. Pleasure/Tourism - The purpose of your planned travel is recreational in nature, including tourism, vacation (holiday), amusement, visits with friends or relatives, rest, medical treatment, activities of a fraternal, social, or service nature, and participation by amateurs, who will receive no remuneration, in musical, sports and similar events or contests. c. Transit - If you are traveling through the United States.

AND if entering the U.S. by air or sea must be:

• Holding a return or onward ticket. If travelling on an electronic ticket, a copy of the itinerary must be carried for presentation to the immigration inspector. Travelers with onward tickets terminating in Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean Islands must be legal residents of these areas.
• Entering the United States aboard an  air or sea carrier that has agreed to participate in the program . This includes aircraft of a U.S. corporation that has entered into an agreement with the Department of Homeland Security to carry passengers under the Visa Waiver Program.

If entering the U.S. by land from Canada or Mexico, the documentary requirements are the same, except there is no requirement for round-trip tickets and signatory carriers. You must satisfy the inspecting officer that you have funds to support yourself during your stay and to depart the U.S.

As of April 1, 2016, those who are able to travel to the United States via the Visa Waiver Program must have a valid electronic passport.  This rule applies even to those who possess a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Electronic passports have this symbol on their cover:

Travelers in the following categories must obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United States as they are no longer eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program.

• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country)
• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country)
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.

This restriction does not apply to VWP travelers whose presence any of those countries was to perform military service in the armed forces of a VWP country, or in order to carry out official duties as a full-time employee of the government of a VWP country. 

The Secretary of Homeland Security may waive this VWP restriction if he determines that such a waiver is in the law enforcement or national security interests of the United States.  Such waivers will be granted only on a case-by-case basis.  As a general matter, categories of travelers who may be eligible for a waiver include:

• Individuals who have traveled to Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and/or Yemen on behalf of international organizations, regional organizations, or  sub-national governments on official duty;
• Individuals who have traveled to Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and/or Yemen on behalf of a humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGO); and
• Individuals who have traveled to Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and/or Yemen as a journalist for reporting purposes.
• Individuals who traveled to Iran for legitimate business-related purposes following the conclusion of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (July 14, 2015); and
• Individuals who have traveled to Iraq for legitimate business-related purposes.

An updated ESTA application form is available.  The new form contains additional questions to address the new travel eligibility requirements called for in the Act.  We encourage travelers seeking an ESTA to use the enhanced system, which will assist in making individual determinations on the potential granting of a waiver. There is no separate application for a waiver.

Current ESTA holders should check their ESTA status prior to travel on CBP’s website, https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ .

Passport Validity:  Visitors traveling to the U.S. are required to be in possession of passports that are valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in the U.S. Citizens of the countries listed on  Six Month Club Update  are exempt to the six-month rule and need only have a passport valid for their intended period of stay. If you are traveling visa free under the Visa Waiver Program, your passport needs to be valid for at least 90 days. If your passport is not valid for 90 days, you will be admitted into the U.S. until the date on which the passport expires.

If you are a traveler from a VWP country and your passport does not meet these requirements, you may want to consider obtaining a new VWP-compliant passport from the passport issuing authority in your country of citizenship. Otherwise you cannot travel under VWP and you must obtain a visa in your valid passport for entry into the U.S.

Some travelers may not be eligible to enter the U.S. visa free under the VWP. These include people who have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction, those with criminal records (even if subject of a pardon, amnesty, or other act of clemency), certain serious communicable illnesses, those who have been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the U.S., or have previously overstayed on the visa waiver program. Such travelers must apply for a visa. If they attempt to travel without a visa, they may be refused entry into the U.S.

Travelers with minor traffic offenses which did not result in an arrest and/or conviction for the offense may travel visa free, provided they are otherwise qualified. If the traffic offense occurred while you were in the U.S. and you have an outstanding fine against you or you did not attend your court hearing, it is possible there may be a warrant out for your arrest and you will experience problems when applying for admission into the U.S. Therefore, you should resolve the issue before travelling by contacting the court where you were to appear.

Visa-free travel does not include those who plan to study, work or remain in the U.S. for longer than 90 days or envisions that they may wish to change their status (from tourism to student, etc.) once in the U.S. Such travelers need visas. If an immigration officer believes that a visa-free traveler is going to study, work or stay longer than 90 days, the officer will refuse to admit the traveler.

Travelers who have been refused an ESTA cannot travel under the VWP. Please apply for a visa before departure.

Canada, Mexico and Bermuda are not participants in the Visa Waiver Program. The Immigration and Nationality Act includes other provisions for visa-free travel for nationals of Canada and Bermuda under certain circumstances. See Citizens of Canada and Bermuda . Since they are not part of the Visa Waiver Program, VWP requirements for machine-readable or biometric passports do not apply to nationals of Canada, Mexico or Bermuda. Also, it should be noted that some nationals of Canada and Bermuda traveling to the United States require nonimmigrant visas.

Learn more about the Visa Waiver Program at the Department of State's website .

Do not contact the Embassy or our call center for questions on the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) . This process is owned by the Department of Homeland Security. Any inquiries on the ESTA process should be directed to the Department of Homeland Security .

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Passing Thru Travel

10 Visa and Passport Tips for Hassle-Free Travel 2024

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

Embarking on international travel demands meticulous planning, particularly in navigating the often complex landscape of visas and passports. This guide is your essential compendium, offering in-depth insights and strategic tips to streamline your travel documentation process. Tailored for novice and seasoned travelers, it ensures that your focus remains on the excitement of your journey rather than the nuances of bureaucracy.

1. Understanding Visa Types and Their Specific Requirements

Each visa type demands a unique set of documents and prerequisites. Tourist visas, generally the most straightforward, still require proof of return tickets, accommodation, and sometimes a detailed itinerary. Business visas may need an invitation from a host company, while student and work visas often have more stringent requirements, including proof of enrollment or employment.

Transit visas, overlooked yet crucial for certain layovers, must be considered to avoid unexpected detours. Begin your application process early, as embassies and consulates can take weeks, if not months, to process requests.

Insider’s Tip: Familiarize yourself with the different types of visas—tourist, business, transit, student, and work visas—and understand the specific requirements for each. This knowledge can significantly influence the success of your application and the smoothness of your travel plans.

2. Navigating Passport Validity and Blank Page Requirements

The overlooked detail of passport expiration can derail your travel plans. Regularly check your passport’s expiry date and renew it well in advance if necessary. Countries requiring a certain number of blank pages in your passport do so for immigration stamps. Falling short on this requirement can result in denied boarding or entry.

Keep in mind that renewal times can vary, and expedited services, while available, come with additional costs. This is a critical step in your travel preparation, so make it a priority in your planning stages.

Insider’s Tip: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity — many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Also, check for blank pages; some countries require a specific number for entry and exit stamps.

3. Visa Application: Timing and Documentation

Timing is everything in visa applications. Start gathering required documents—such as photographs, travel insurance, financial statements, and any necessary letters or invitations—as early as possible. Be aware of holidays and peak periods, as these can affect processing times.

Online visa applications have simplified the process for many countries, but always have hard copies of essential documents when traveling. A common pitfall is underestimating the time it takes for visa processing; each country has its own timeline, and it’s prudent to allow extra time for any unforeseen complications.

Insider’s Tip: Apply for your visa as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Late applications can lead to stressful delays or, worse, trip cancellations.

4. Health and Vaccination Documentation

Health documentation is increasingly becoming a staple in international travel. Countries in Africa and South America, for instance, may require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. COVID-19-related health documentation has also become a norm. Always carry a physical copy of your vaccination records and any other required health documents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) offers a standardized ‘Yellow Card’ that shows vaccination history and is recognized worldwide. Not adhering to these requirements can result in being denied entry, so it’s critical to understand and comply with these health mandates.

Insider’s Tip: Some countries require proof of vaccination against specific diseases. Keep a record of your vaccinations and check the health requirements of your destination country.

5. Understanding Visa Waiver Programs and e-Visas

Many countries have agreements allowing certain nation citizens to enter without a traditional visa. For instance, the Schengen Area in Europe allows travelers from certain countries to enter visa-free for short stays.

Similarly, e-Visas, available through online applications, offer a streamlined process for obtaining travel authorization. These digital visas save time and reduce paperwork but always confirm the specific entry requirements, as they can vary even within visa waiver programs.

Insider’s Tip: Check if the country you visit has a visa waiver program or offers e-Visas, as these can significantly simplify the travel process.

6. Dealing with Visa Denials and Appeals

A visa denial can be disheartening, but it’s not always the end of the road. Embassies usually provide reasons for denial, which you should address in subsequent applications. Some countries offer an appeal process, while others require you to wait a certain period before reapplying.

Understanding the specific protocol of the country you’re applying to is crucial. Ensure your reapplication or appeal addresses all the concerns raised initially. Sometimes, seeking the assistance of a visa consultant or an immigration lawyer can provide clarity and improve your chances in complex cases.

Insider’s Tip: In case of a visa denial, understand the reasons provided and the process for an appeal or reapplication, if applicable.

7. Passport Safety and Copies

Your passport is your most valuable document when traveling abroad. Keep it secure in a hotel safe or a secure, hidden compartment in your luggage. Having copies of your passport (the page with your personal information and any relevant visa pages) is crucial in emergencies.

Store a digital copy in a secure cloud service and email a copy to yourself and a trusted contact back home. In the unfortunate event of losing your passport, these copies will be instrumental in proving your identity and facilitating the replacement process at your embassy or consulate.

Insider’s Tip: Keep your passport safe at all times and carry physical and digital copies in case of loss or theft.

8. Cultural Sensitivity and Local Laws

Cultural awareness is a sign of respect and can affect your entry into a country. Some nations have strict dress codes or norms that, if not adhered to, can lead to issues at immigration. Familiarize yourself with these aspects to avoid unintentional offenses. Additionally, understanding local laws is crucial.

For example, countries in the Middle East have stringent drug laws, and carrying certain prescription medications without proper documentation can lead to serious legal troubles.

Insider’s Tip: Research your destination’s cultural norms and local laws, as these can sometimes impact visa and entry policies.

9. Travel Insurance and Visa Requirements

Travel insurance is often a visa requirement, especially for countries in the Schengen Area. This insurance should cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and repatriation. Check the specific coverage requirements of your destination country and keep a copy of your insurance policy with your travel documents. Not only is it necessary for some visa applications, but it’s also a prudent safeguard against unforeseen events during your travels.

Insider’s Tip: Some countries require proof of travel insurance for visa issuance. Ensure your policy meets the minimum coverage requirements.

10. Consulate and Embassy Assistance

Embassies and consulates can assist with a range of issues — from lost passports to legal troubles. Before traveling, note the address and contact details of your country’s diplomatic missions in the destination country.

In case of an emergency, such as a lost or stolen passport, political unrest, or natural disasters, they can provide crucial support and guidance. It’s also wise to inform them of your travel plans, particularly if traveling to regions with heightened security risks.

Insider’s Tip: Know the location and contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate in your destination country. They can be invaluable in emergencies.

The Bottom Line

Successful and hassle-free travel hinges on your preparedness, especially regarding visas and passports. By following these tips, you’re paving the way for a journey of ease and enjoyment. Equip yourself with this knowledge, and step confidently into your next journey, knowing you’ve covered every essential detail.

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The post 10 Visa and Passport Tips for Hassle-Free Travel 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eviart.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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World Cup 2026: Concerns over fans’ U.S. visa wait times – ‘Your window might already be closed’

Concerns have been raised with the United States government, including an official meeting in the White House, over fears supporters may be deterred from the 2026 men’s World Cup owing to excessive wait times to process visa applications to visit the country.

The tournament begins in 777 days and it will be at least another 18 months before many countries will be assured of qualification, yet the wait times for U.S. visa interviews in two Mexican cities are already in excess of 800 days, while it is 685 days in the Colombian capital of Bogota.

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In a statement to The Athletic , the U.S. Department of State (which oversees international relations) insisted it is determined to reduce wait times but also encouraged supporters in affected countries to start applying for visas now, over two years out from the tournament and with the line-up still unknown.

The 2026 edition of world football’s governing body FIFA ’s flagship tournament will include 48 nations for the first time and will be held in 16 cities in the U.S, Canada and Mexico.

It will also be the first World Cup without an overarching local organising committee, which means FIFA is tasked with pulling everything together, in conjunction with the many layers of stakeholders and bureaucracy across three nations and 16 host cities, each of which have differing levels of private and taxpayer support.

The three host countries also have differing entry criteria for visitors, which has the potential to create visa confusion for fans seeking to follow their team deep into the tournament across multiple borders.

Several host cities, including the location for the final — New York/New Jersey — are also concerned about the wait times for visas, and the potential impact on income from tourism during the tournament, but the cities are currently allowing FIFA and the travel industry to lead the conversations with the government. Some of those who have spoken to The Athletic wished to remain anonymous, owing either to sensitivity around discussions or to protect working relationships.

Travis Murphy is the founder of Jetr Global Sports + Entertainment and a former American diplomat who also once ran international government affairs for the NBA .

“My concern is this could be a disaster (in 2026),” he said. “The concerns are absolutely there on the city level. The cities are thinking, ‘They are FIFA, so they must have it under control.’ But when you realise how FIFA worked in the past with previous hosts in Qatar and Russia, it doesn’t necessarily work in the United States.

“We’re just a completely different animal in terms of how our government operates and how we communicate. And frankly, the emphasis that we place on soccer as a sport in our country.

“If this was the Super Bowl, the World Series or the NBA finals, we’d be having a different conversation. Soccer is not the biggest sport in our country. And I think that’s a fundamental lack of understanding by FIFA, perhaps just taking it for granted that it is the case everywhere in the world. But it’s not yet in the United States.”

In recent months, U.S. travel industry representatives and FIFA have raised concerns with the U.S. Department of State and the White House as the respective groups seek to organise how millions of tourists will enter the U.S. during the five-week tournament in June and July 2026. In January 2024, FIFA strengthened its staff in D.C. when it hired Alex Sopko, the former chief of staff for the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs at the White House, to be its new Director of Government Relations.

In a statement to The Athletic , a FIFA spokesperson said the organisation is working closely with U.S. Government in the planning and preparation for the World Cup, including regular discussions on critical topics such as immigration and visas, and adding it recognises “the urgency of these matters.”

The visa delays ahead of the World Cup were raised in a meeting at the White House on Wednesday, April 17, with senior administration officials in conversation with the United States Travel Association (U.S. Travel).  

Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of U.S. Travel, was present in the meeting. He describes visa wait times as a “massive issue” but added: “We came away confident that the White House recognises the significance of the 2026 World Cup and will take concrete steps to streamline aspects of the travel experience for the more than eight million anticipated visitors.”

Freely available data on the website of the Department of Consular affairs details the lengthy wait times currently impacting visitor visas from markets that may be highly relevant during the World Cup, which begins in 778 days.

Forty-one countries, including much of Europe, Japan, South Korea and Australia, are part of a visa waiver programme — ESTA — to enter the United States, which means citizens of these countries can travel without obtaining a visa, so as long as their trip for tourism or business does not exceed 90 days.

However, many people, estimated by U.S. Travel to represent 45 per cent of those who visit the States, do require visas for entry. These documents, called a B1/B2 visa, also require in-person appointments at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to take digital photographs and fingerprints, as well as an interview, in which the candidate must state their intention to return to their home countries and explain their reasons for visiting the United States.

Wait times for a visa interview at a U.S. consulate in the Mexican cities of Mexico City and Guadalajara are currently 878 days and 820 days respectively, so an application made today may not be approved before the World Cup begins. In the Colombian capital of Bogota, the current wait time is 685 days, while Panama City is 477 days and Quito in Ecuador is 420.

The 2026 World Cup is guaranteed to include the U.S, Mexico and Canada as hosts but five more nations may yet qualify from North and Central America, while up to seven may enter from the South American Football Confederation. Wait times are also dramatic in the Turkish city of Istanbul, where it takes 553 days for an appointment, as well as in Morocco, semi-finalists at the World Cup in 2022, where the wait time is 225 days.

In a statement to The Athletic, the state department said: “We encourage prospective FIFA World Cup visitors who will need U.S. visas to apply now – there is no requirement to have purchased event tickets, made hotel reservations, or reserved airline tickets to qualify for a visitor visa.”

Freeman attributes the current visa delays to the shutdown of consular offices during the coronavirus pandemic but also outlines long-standing issues.

“The U.S. is the world’s most desired nation to visit, but our market share is slipping and it’s in a large part due to long visa wait times,” he said. “If you are Colombian and want to come and bring your kids in 2026, your window might already be closed.”

A World Cup is further complicated because many supporters may wait until their nations have secured qualification to organise their trip. For the Americas, this will largely be in winter 2025 — the play-offs may be as late as March 2026 — while nations will only know the cities in which their teams will be competing following the draw, which is usually held eight months out from the tournament.

During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, visitors were able to expedite their entry into the country by applying for a Hayya card, effectively a fan pass for World Cup ticket holders that acted as a visa for the tournament. A repeat pass is not expected to be approved by the U.S, particularly at a time of global tensions both in the Middle East and following Russia ’s invasion of and continued war against Ukraine .

Freeman warned: “The U.S. is not going to change its visa policies in the short term to frankly cater to FIFA. I think where you may see the U.S. adjust some of its approach is in cooperation with Mexico and Canada . So once teams have qualified within the tournament, how do we streamline their ability to cross borders and attend games in other markets later in the tournament? I believe that’s where there will be greater cooperation and some of those discussions are already taking place.”

The answer may simply be additional staff and investment, such as deploying more consular officers at embassies, a method which has helped significantly reduce wait times from Brazil and India over the past year. Congress set aside $50million for the U.S. State Department to “reduce passport backlogs and reduce visa wait times” in a bill signed into law by U.S. President Joe Biden in March but it was not specified how and where the money will be invested.

There is a precedent for visa issues causing delays at major international sporting events in the United States. Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala, who set the African 100metres record of 9.77 seconds in 2021, only received his visa documentation the day before the men’s 100 metres heats began at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon in 2022.

After securing his visa in Kenya, he took a five-hour flight to Qatar, endured a six-hour layover, then a 14-hour flight to Seattle, another three-hour layover and last of all, a one-hour flight to Oregon. He landed at 4.15 pm and immediately went to the track, where the heats commenced at 6.50pm.

The sprinter said: “If you are hosting a championship, you need to waive (visa requirements) for athletes. It’s a lesson for the host country in the future, and the U.S. is hosting the Olympics in 2028 (in Los Angeles), so they need to learn from this and do better next time.”

Murphy added: “There were hundreds of athletes who were unable to travel. The World Athletics Championships was was a relatively small event compared to the magnitude of what we’re talking about with the 48-team World Cup and the millions and millions of people involved, in terms of what needs to happen.”

Playing rosters are usually only approved in the final months before a tournament, but the U.S. is expected to expedite processing to ensure players and support staff from federations are able to arrive in time for the World Cup.

The U.S. Department of State attributes the issues at World Athletics to the pressures felt by consular officers coming out of the pandemic and told The Athletic that wait times for “P-visas”, generally used by members of professional sports teams coming to participate in athletic competitions, are “low worldwide”.

Murphy said the National Security Council has established a working committee on the matter for the White House but caveated his optimism with a reminder that more instant priorities are Israel, Gaza and Ukraine. He said: “This is not a priority beyond the host cities, FIFA itself and the members of Congress who represent those host cities. But in terms of there being a broad approach that is all-encompassing and has a wide swath of support in Congress, there’s just nothing there. There’s no bills or initiatives in Congress that are focused on this.”

He added: “The conversations that needed to have started a year plus ago are not at a point where they need to be. And when you’re talking about the U.S. Government, it is essentially at a state of standstill in terms of any major movement that needs to happen from now until November of this year (when there is a Presidential election).”

The Department of State insisted it is “committed to facilitating legitimate travel to the United States while maintaining high national security standards.”

Its statement continued: “We are pleased to be an active participant in a working group with FIFA and other stakeholders on plans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Bureau of Consular Affairs recognizes the importance of international inbound tourism, including for mega sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup, and is working tirelessly to facilitate secure travel to the United States. We have significantly reduced visa wait times over the past two years.”

One of the peculiarities of the U.S. political system is that there is no sports ministry to facilitate such discussions. In its absence, Murphy calls for a special envoy to be appointed, with the World Cup likely to be followed by the women’s edition in 2027 before the Olympics in LA in 2028.

He said: “There has to be somebody centralised to organise those conversations. That’s relatively easy to do. If it’s somebody that has the respect and attention of the cabinet agencies, they can have a conversation with Capitol Hill and that’s going to go a long way to getting things done.”

(Top photo: Patrick Smith/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Adam Crafton covers football for The Athletic. He previously wrote for the Daily Mail. In 2018, he was named the Young Sports Writer of the Year by the Sports' Journalist Association. His debut book,"From Guernica to Guardiola", charting the influence of Spaniards in English football, was published by Simon & Schuster in 2018. He is based in London.

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Thailand signs mutual visa-waiver agreement with Kazakhstan

• Asia & Oceania

Friday, 26 Apr 2024

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Tourists joining in the celebration of the recent Songkran holiday in Bangkok. — Reuters

Thailand and Kazakhstan recently signed a permanent bilateral visa waiver agreement, as the South-East Asian country looks to lift foreign tourist arrivals back to pre-Covid-19 levels.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s cabinet had earlier approved the visa exemption, and Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara signed the documents during Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu’s visit to Bangkok on April 23, according to Thai newspaper, The Nation .

Under the policy, travellers from Kazakhstan will be able to stay in Thailand without a visa for a maximum of 30 days at a time and a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. Thai travellers to Kazakhstan will need to adhere to the same rules, he said.

The programme will take effect 30 days after confirmation that internal procedures in the respective countries have been finalised to enforce the agreement.

Thailand has benefited from an increase in Kazakhstani tourist arrivals since the country rolled out a temporary visa waiver programme that started in September 2023, and was extended through to August 2024.

Thailand has seen a more than 40% jump in foreign tourist arrivals this year to about 11 million, as its visa waiver programmes and easier travel rules draw travellers from across the world. Chinese tourists topped the list with about two million visitors, followed by travellers from Malaysia, Russia, South Korea and India, according to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

Thailand’s vital tourism industry accounts for 12% of the country’s gross domestic product. This year, the country aims to welcome 35 to 40 million foreign tourists, close to the pre-pandemic record of 40 million visitors in 2019.

The government aims to net THB1.8 trillion (RM233bil) in revenue from foreign tourists this year. The earnings totalled THB518bil (RM67bil) between Jan 1 and April 14, official preliminary data showed. — Bloomberg

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Tags / Keywords: Thailand , Kazakhstan , Visa waiver , visa , tourism , visa-free , holiday

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