WHAT IS THE VISA WAIVER PROGRAM?

For many foreign nationals, travel to the United States for business or pleasure requires the issuance of a visa.  This entails an application process through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the individual's home country.  However, for foreign nationals of certain countries with whom the United States has a good relationship of trust and a history of visitors respecting U.S. laws and returning to their home countries when required, the United States has created a special program to avoid the necessity of obtaining an actual visa.  This program is known as the "Visa Waiver Program".  

WHAT COUNTRIES CURRENTLY PARTICIPATE IN THE VISA WAIVER PROGRAM?

As of today, the following countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program:  Andorra, Austraila, 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 and the United Kingdom.  To qualify to come to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, an individual must be a citizen or national of one of these countries. 

HOW DO I OBTAIN AUTHORIZATION?

A person can verify authorization to travel by logging on to the DHS/CBP Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) website at www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta.  A fee is required for authorization to travel.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?

Travel must be on an approved air or sea carrier.  The individual must have a round trip ticket, indicating the intention to return to the home country.  The person must show a history of compliance with U.S. immigration laws and no prior ineligibility for a visa.  The person must also have a valid passport.

If you're considering temporary travel to the United States and have questions about your eligibility to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, contact the attorneys at Christiansen Law Firm for guidance.  Christiansen Law Firm has significant experience in immigration matters, and can guide you in your eligibility for entry to the United States.  Contact the offices of Christiansen Law Firm for additional information.