Apply for a visa at the U.S. embassy or fill out the ESTA form?
Traveling to the United States requires a travel authorization. This may be a U.S. visa, to be applied for at the U.S. embassy, or an ESTA authorization under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA application is made by filling in an online form. It’s easier to obtain, but not suitable for all travelers. In some cases, you’ll need to apply for a visa at an American embassy. So, what do you need to travel to the USA, a visa or an ESTA?
What are the ESTA eligibility requirements?
To travel to the USA with ESTA authorization, several conditions must be met. Only nationals of countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program are authorized to apply for this authorization. The stay in the USA must be for tourism or business for a maximum of 90 consecutive days. The ESTA is also required for transit through the USA.
The ESTA application is made using an online form. Only online applications are accepted by the American authorities. So don’t try to contact the U.S. consular services, as they won’t be any help.
To complete the online form, all you need to do is fill in your personal details, your valid passport and a few details about your stay in the USA. The ESTA form is completed by a series of questions designed to determine whether you represent a threat to the country’s internal security.
Before validating your ESTA application, be sure to check all the data you enter, or go through an intermediary, as the slightest mistake can lead to a refusal. You’ll receive a reply within 72 hours, although it tends to take less time. The response is either positive, negative or pending.
When should I apply for a visa at the US embassy?
If you live in a country not included in the Visa Waiver Program, or if your stay in the USA exceeds the three months authorized by the ESTA authorization, you must apply for a visa at the US embassy. This also applies to those whose applications have not been approved. There is no point in renewing the ESTA application until the situation that led to the refusal has been resolved. Please note that Customs and Border Protection does not explain the reasons for rejection. If you think you’ve made a mistake on the application form, you can reapply. On the other hand, if you don’t know the reason for the refusal, the best solution is to apply for a U.S. visa.
The U.S. government has set up a visa for each type of stay. So make sure you take the right steps and present the right supporting documents.
Why apply for an ESTA rather than a visa?
Applying for an ESTA is much quicker and easier than applying for a visa. The ESTA application takes just a few clicks. What’s more, an ESTA is much cheaper than a visa. If you’re looking to work in the USA, do an internship or study at an American university, you have no choice but to apply for a visa. The same applies if you want to live in the USA.
Make sure you have a valid e-passport or biometric passport. Don’t hesitate to apply for a new passport if necessary.