What documents do I need to enter America?
In short
- All foreign travelers entering the United States need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their planned departure.
- Citizens of around 40 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can enter the US with an approved ESTA for tourism stays of up to 90 days.
- Travelers from countries not in the VWP must apply for a B1/B2 tourist visa at a US embassy or consulate before traveling.
Entering the United States - the basics
The US has some of the strictest entry procedures in the world. Before you book a hotel through trip1 and head to the airport, make sure you have every required document - US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers can refuse entry even to travelers with valid authorization.
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay (waived for some allied countries).
- An approved ESTA if you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country.
- A B1/B2 tourist visa if your country is not in the VWP.
- A return or onward ticket out of the US.
- A hotel reservation from trip1 or address of your US accommodation.
- Proof of sufficient funds and ties to your home country.
What is ESTA?
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a free pre-screening program for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries. It currently costs USD 21 and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
Visa Waiver Program countries include the UK, all EU member states, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and around 30 others. With an approved ESTA you can travel to the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days per visit.
When do you need a US visa instead?
If your country is not on the VWP list, you must apply for a US visa in advance. The most common is the B1/B2 tourist visa, which requires an in-person interview at a US embassy, fingerprinting, and a fee.
Even citizens of VWP countries may be required to apply for a visa if they have visited certain countries (such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Cuba) after specific dates.
Arriving in the US
On arrival, you must show your passport and CBP will scan your fingerprints and photo. Have your trip1 hotel booking ready in case they ask for proof of where you will be staying. Visitors are usually admitted for the time stamped on their I-94 record.
What documents do I need to enter America - FAQ
Your passport must generally be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from the US. Some allied countries are exempt under the 6-month club agreement.
ESTA approvals are usually issued within minutes, but the US government recommends applying at least 72 hours before travel in case of delays.
No. Both ESTA and B1/B2 visas are strictly for tourism, short business meetings, and family visits. Working in the US requires a different visa class.
The I-94 is your official US arrival/departure record. It shows the date you entered, your status, and how long you can stay. You can look it up online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.
Yes. The US has no airside transit zone for international flights - if you change planes in the US, you still need an ESTA or US visa.
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Our support team is ready to assist you with any questions.