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Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

If you are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must meet the eligibility requirements to travel to the U.S. under the program. You will also need authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before beginning your trip. Learn about the VWP and ESTA application process and other documentation you will need to enter the U.S.

How to request a travel authorization to the U.S. through ESTA

Check the list of countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program  to see if your country is included.

Confirm that your passport meets the program requirements. You must have an  electronic passport or “e-Passport”  to participate in the VWP. This type of passport includes a chip.

Complete the  ESTA application  online.

Pay the fees: The total cost is $21. When you apply, you will pay a $4 processing fee. If you are approved to travel to the U.S., you must pay an additional $17 authorization fee.  Learn about the payment options available to pay ESTA fees.

When you complete and submit the form and processing fee, you will get an ESTA application number. Use that number to  check the status of your application . It may take up to 72 hours to find out if you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.

Each approved ESTA application is generally valid for two years and allows multiple visits to the U.S. within that period without having to apply for another travel approval. If your passport expires in less than two years, you will receive an ESTA approval valid until the passport's expiration date.

When you travel to the U.S. for tourism or business under the VWP, you may stay up to 90 days per visit.

If you have questions about the ESTA and VWP application process, visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) FAQ page .

Other travel documents you will need to enter the U.S.

Even if you qualify for the VWP, you will need to bring a passport from your country of citizenship to enter the U.S. Generally, your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date you will exit the U.S. unless your country has signed an agreement with the U.S. Learn more about "Six Month Club Requirements."

When you enter the U.S., officials at your port of entry will issue you a Form I-94W, an electronic record of your entry date. Learn more about I-94W and how to apply .

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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

Visa Waiver Program travelers are required to apply for and receive an approved travel authorization via ESTA to board a plane or vessel bound for the United States. (A travel authorization via ESTA is not a guarantee of admission into the United States. Travelers must establish their eligibility for the program during inspection by an officer at a port of entry.)

In most instances, ESTA applicants will receive real-time notification on the status of their application to travel to the United States. Applicants denied an ESTA will be advised to apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.

For more information, and to apply for a travel authorization, see ESTA .

What to know about the US ESTA 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it costs

If you're traveling to the U.S. any time soon and you're a citizen of the United Kingdom or Europe, it's quite likely that you'll need to apply for an ESTA before you visit.

Short for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, applying for an ESTA might seem daunting if you've never done it before. Don't worry — we have you covered.

Below we break down everything you need to know about applying for an ESTA, from how much it will cost and approval times to when you should renew it and when you need to consider applying for one.

Related: What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost

What is the ESTA 'visa'?

An ESTA is an automated part of the Visa Waiver Program that allows visitors from specific countries to visit the U.S. Visitors must be citizens of countries classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver list to be eligible for an ESTA application. Currently, 40 countries are included on the list, including the U.K. and much of Europe.

ESTA holders can visit the U.S. for a period of 90 days or less without the need to apply for a standard visa if their visit is either a vacation or a business trip.

ESTA was initially rolled out by the U.S. in 2008 to allow the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Borders Protection to use authorized databases to pre-screen visitors to the country. It also allows the easier identification of terrorists, criminals and banned flyers, and is designed to help prevent such people from entering the country. It can also help identify those who may be a risk for overstaying their visits.

Is an ESTA a visa?

No, an ESTA is not a traditional visa and instead is classed as a visa waiver. As such, the application process is much more straightforward than applying for a traditional visa, and eligible travelers can do so by filling out a short online application on ESTA's official website.

The form requires applicants to share basic personal information, travel history and other simple security questions. Applications are usually processed within 72 hours.

Who needs to apply for an ESTA?

You'll need to apply for an ESTA if you are a citizen of a country classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver program, which includes the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, among others. You can view the full list of the 40 eligible countries on the DHS website .

If you are visiting the U.S. from one of these countries as part of a vacation or business trip that is set to last for 90 days or less — and you are arriving by either plane or cruise ship — you can apply for an ESTA.

If you already hold a visa for visiting the U.S., you do not need to also apply for an ESTA. Additionally, if you are only briefly stopping in the U.S. to catch a connecting flight or ship before moving on to your final destination, know that you will still be required to apply for an ESTA, regardless of how brief your stay is.

How much does an ESTA cost?

The ESTA application fee is $21; you can pay this fee online after filling out your application form. The fee was increased from $14 in May 2023, and its current pricing will remain in effect until September 2027.

Valid payment methods include:

• American Express
• Discover (JCB or Diners Club only)

Your application will not be submitted for approval until your payment has been received.

How do you apply for an ESTA?

You can only apply for an ESTA online. Find the official site here .

You will be asked to accept various terms and upload an image of your passport during your application. After uploading an image of your passport, you will also be asked to share your passport information, valid email address and other standard personal details, along with information regarding your upcoming and previous travel history.

If applicable, you may also be required to share details about your employment; aliases or other names; a national ID or personal ID number; your Global Entry, Nexus or Sentri ID number; and the name, addresses or phone number for any U.S. points of contact.

When do I need to apply for an ESTA?

Your ESTA application can be submitted at any time before you travel to the U.S. However, the DHS advises you to apply at least 72 hours before travel to allow time for processing ahead of departure.

How long does an ESTA application take to be approved?

In TPG's experience, an ESTA application can often be approved on the same day you apply, though it can sometimes take up to 72 hours to be processed. We recommend applying at least a week or two before traveling to allow time for the application to be approved.

How long is an ESTA valid for, and will I need to apply for each trip to the US?

Once approved, your ESTA will be valid for two years from the date it was authorized or until the date your passport expires — depending on which comes first. You will not be required to apply for a new ESTA for each subsequent visit to the U.S. as long as any trips fall within the two-year validity period.

If you acquire a new passport or change your name, sex or citizenship after having your ESTA approved, you must submit a new application for approval.

How can I check my ESTA status?

If you have applied for an ESTA and want to check its status, you can do so by visiting the ESTA website and selecting "Check ESTA Status."

If you are checking your own application, click "Check Individual Status." You will then be asked to supply either your passport number, date of birth and application number or your country of citizenship and passport issue and expiration dates.

To check the status of a group application, click "Check Group Status." From here, you will be asked to supply your group ID, family name, first (given) name, email and date of birth of your group's point of contact.

You will then be able to see the current status of your ESTA, which will fall into one of three categories:

• Authorization Approved — meaning your application was successful, and you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Travel Not Authorized — meaning your application was unsuccessful, and you're not authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Authorization Pending — Your travel authorization is still under review and should usually be determined within 72 hours

Note that while in most cases you will be fine entering the U.S. once your application is approved, having an ESTA alone does not guarantee admission. Your final entry will be at the discretion of the CBP officer at your destination.

Bottom line

If you are traveling to the U.S. from the U.K. or other countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure if you are not already approved.

Your ESTA will cost $21 and will be valid for two years from its authorization date. If you already have an ESTA, it's wise to check its status before any trips to the U.S. to ensure it's still valid.

Related reading:

• What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost
• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or an expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
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• Immigration

Understanding ESTA: The Electronic System for U.S. Travel Authorization

The electronic system for travel authorization (esta) is an online system used for foreign travelers visiting the u.s. under the visa waiver program, eligible travelers must complete an esta application before their trip. this streamlined process saves time and ensures compliance with u.s. immigration requirements. learn more about esta and how it simplifies u.s. travel..

Quick Glance:

• ESTA is a required travel authorization for visitors coming to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
• The application process is online, quick, and offers multiple entries into the U.S. for up to two years.
• Applying for ESTA is crucial for eligible travelers, but it does not guarantee entry into the United States. Are you planning a trip to the United States for business, tourism, or transit purposes? If so, you might need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization or ESTA before you pack your bags. Designed to enhance security, the ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Let’s take a closer look at what ESTA is and how it functions.

Understanding ESTA

ESTA is not a visa; it is a required travel authorization for travelers coming to the United States under the VWP. The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens or nationals from participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or fewer without obtaining a visa. Nevertheless, obtaining an approved ESTA is a mandatory step prior to boarding a U.S.-bound airplane or cruise ship.

How Does ESTA Work?

The process is quite straightforward. You simply need to fill out an application online, which asks for your biographical information and answers to a set of security and eligibility questions. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security administers the program, and you can apply for ESTA at CBP’s ESTA official website .

Benefits of ESTA

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Do uscis cases get reviewed on weekends, sri lanka e-visa guide: apply and travel with ease.

Ease and Efficiency: The application process is entirely online. Most applicants can expect a response within minutes.

Planned Travel: An ESTA authorization is usually valid for two years and allows for multiple entries into the United States during that period.

Applying for ESTA

Before applying, it is advised to prepare the necessary information and documents:

• A valid passport from a VWP country.
• A credit card (MasterCard, VISA, American Express, and Discover) or PayPal to pay the application fee.
• Your contact information.
• Your recent employment history, if applicable.

The application is straightforward to complete:

• Visit the official ESTA website and fill out the application.
• Upon completion, review the application for accuracy.
• Pay the non-refundable application fee.
• Submit your application and note down the confirmation number.

It’s crucial to ensure that all details are accurate as mistakes can lead to delays or even denial of your authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I Always Need an ESTA? If you’re entering the U.S. under the VWP by air or sea, you will require an ESTA. It’s advisable to apply as soon as you start planning your trip, and no less than 72 hours before your travel date.
• What if My ESTA Application is Denied? An ESTA denial does not fully determine your eligibility for travel to the U.S., nor does it prevent you from applying for a visa.

Keep in Mind

• An approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States as the final determination is made by Customs and Border Protection officers upon arrival.
• An ESTA does not satisfy legal requirements for those with a suspended visa or other inadmissibility issues.

Applying for an ESTA is a quick and necessary step for those eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program to ensure a smooth experience entering the U.S. Always double-check the information you provide, apply in advance, and ensure you understand the conditions of your authorization.

Travelers can find more information and assistance on the U.S. State Department website or consult embassy and consulate resources if they encounter issues or have more complex situations. Remember, staying informed and prepared is key to a stress-free journey to the United States. Safe travels!

So there you have it, my fellow travel enthusiasts! Now you know what this ESTA business is all about. It’s like a high-tech permission slip to enter the land of burgers and Hollywood. Just remember to apply in advance, dot your i’s and cross your t’s, and you’ll be on your way in no time. If you want to dive deeper into the world of travel authorizations and visa regulations , hop on over to visaverge.com. It’s like Narnia for travel nerds like us. Happy exploring, and safe travels!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: Do I always need an ESTA?

If you’re entering the U.S. under the VWP by air or sea, you will require an ESTA. It’s advisable to apply as soon as you start planning your trip, and no less than 72 hours before your travel date. Applying for an ESTA is a quick and necessary step for those eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program to ensure a smooth experience entering the U.S.

FAQ 2: What if my ESTA application is denied?

An ESTA denial does not fully determine your eligibility for travel to the U.S., nor does it prevent you from applying for a visa. If your ESTA application is denied, you can still pursue alternative avenues for travel by applying for a visa through the U.S. embassy or consulate. It’s important to keep in mind that an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States, as the final determination is made by Customs and Border Protection officers upon arrival.

FAQ 3: What are the benefits of ESTA?

The ESTA application process is entirely online, providing ease and efficiency. Most applicants can expect a response within minutes. An ESTA authorization is usually valid for two years and allows for multiple entries into the United States during that period, making it convenient for planned travel. However, it’s essential to note that an ESTA does not satisfy legal requirements for those with a suspended visa or other inadmissibility issues.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True or False: An ESTA is a required travel authorization for travelers coming to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
• What is the validity period for an approved ESTA? a) 30 days b) 1 year c) 2 years d) 5 years
• When should you apply for an ESTA? a) At least 72 hours before your travel date b) After you arrive in the United States c) Just before boarding your flight or cruise ship d) Anytime during your trip

Did you Know?

Did You Know? 1. True or False: An ESTA is a required travel authorization for travelers coming to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). 2. What is the validity period for an approved ESTA? a) 30 days b) 1 year c) 2 years d) 5 years 3. When should you apply for an ESTA? a) At least 72 hours before your travel date b) After you arrive in the United States c) Just before boarding your flight or cruise ship d) Anytime during your trip

Fascinating Facts about Immigration: 1. The United States has been a top destination for immigrants from around the world for centuries. Did you know that nearly 14% of the U.S. population is made up of immigrants? That’s roughly 44 million people! 2. Immigration can have a significant impact on a country’s economic growth. Studies show that immigrants contribute greatly to entrepreneurship and job creation. In fact, more than 40% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. 3. Have you ever wondered which country has the highest number of immigrants living abroad? It’s India! As of 2020, India had the largest diaspora population, with over 18 million Indians living in other countries. 4. Immigrants have played a crucial role in shaping American culture. Did you know that iconic American symbols like the hot dog and fortune cookies were brought to the United States by immigrants? 5. The United States has a long history of welcoming refugees. In fact, from 1975 to 2019, the U.S. admitted over 3.4 million refugees, providing them with the opportunity to start a new life and contribute to society.

By exploring these lesser-known facts about immigration, we can gain a deeper understanding of the impact and importance of immigration in our society.

Learn Today: Key Terms Explained

Glossary or Definitions

ESTA : Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It is a required travel authorization for travelers coming to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). ESTA is not a visa but is necessary for eligible travelers to board a U.S.-bound airplane or cruise ship.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) : A program that allows citizens or nationals from participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or fewer without obtaining a visa.

Biographical information : Personal information about an individual, such as their name, date of birth, and nationality.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security : The government agency responsible for ensuring the security and safety of the United States, including managing immigration and border control.

Application fee : The fee charged for submitting an application, in this case, the fee required to apply for ESTA.

Confirmation number : A unique identification number provided to an applicant upon successful submission of the ESTA application.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) : A U.S. federal agency that manages the flow of people, goods, and vehicles into and out of the United States, including immigration enforcement and border security.

Non-refundable : Describes a fee or payment that cannot be returned or reimbursed if the application is denied or revoked.

Embassy : The official office of a country’s government in another country. Embassies provide consular services, including assistance to citizens traveling or living abroad.

Consulate : A branch office of an embassy located in another city or region within a country. Consulates often provide similar services to embassies but on a smaller scale.

Visa : An official document or endorsement on a passport that allows a person to enter, leave, or stay in a country for a specific purpose and duration.

Authorized traveler : A person who has obtained an approved ESTA and is permitted to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

Inadmissibility issues : Factors or conditions that may disqualify a person from entering or staying in a country, such as criminal history or health-related concerns.

Visa regulations : Laws and rules that govern the issuance, use, and requirements of visas for entry into a country.

Valid passport : A passport that is not expired or damaged and meets the requirements of the country being visited.

Eligibility : The criteria or conditions that must be met for someone to be qualified or entitled to a specific benefit or privilege.

Security questions : Questions designed to assess the security and eligibility of an individual applying for an ESTA, typically related to travel history, criminal record, and potential risks.

Visa denial : The rejection of an application for a visa, usually due to reasons such as the applicant’s ineligibility, incomplete documentation, or failure to meet specific requirements.

Alternative avenues for travel : Other options or methods for entering a country, such as applying for a visa through an embassy or consulate, when an ESTA application is denied.

Authorized travel period : The duration of time during which an approved ESTA is valid, typically two years, allowing for multiple entries into the United States within that period.

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What is the ESTA application number, and why is it important?

30 May 15:46

If you’re trying to visit the US from countries in Visa Waiver Program, the easiest way to get the travel authorization is through the ESTA application. All applicants will get an ESTA application number, a random alphanumerical 16 character sequence for unique identification towards Customs and Bodred Protection. In this article, we will reveal what EAN is and why it is essential.

The purpose of ESTA application number

You can’t find out about personal information from the ESTA application number. However, you can get the pending ESTA application status along with your passport number and birth date. The randomly generated ESTA Visa number is a digital link to the ESTA travel applicant profile .

After you apply, with your unique number, you can perform ESTA check status regularly. There are several ESTA statuses you can have. You can check the status only online. If the status says Payment Pending, the application didn’t reach the Department of Homeland Security and won’t be processed unless you pay the fee within seven days. No Application Found status means you will have to apply for ESTA again.

For approved applications, the ESTA application and authorization number are the same. For rejected candidates, the ESTA application number will be Travel Not Authorized. You can’t go on vacation or transit travel through USA without travel authorization.

TRAVELING TO THE UNITED STATES?

Do You Have U.S. ESTA VISA Travel Authorization? If You Have ESTA Application, Check if it is Still Valid!

Is ESTA a guarantee for entry to the USA? Usually, the answer would be yes, but in pandemic times like these, the American administration can have additional requests and/or travel bans, so you should check the official ESTA page for updates on travel status.

To find out is the ESTA authorization number genuine, you must visit the ESTA application status page. If you successfully applied for ESTA, then you can check all you need to know about travel insurance . Pay special attention to health insurance because healthcare costs in the USA could be extremely high.

Bottom line

ESTA application number is a unique random number assigned to every applicant, and it is the connection to your application. You will need other personal information like passport number and travel details to check the status. IF you plan to travel to the USA, you should write or save the ESTA visa number because it is also an authorization number for successful applicants.

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Traveling to the U.S.

When you’re traveling to the United States from another country as a visitor, make sure you’re prepared with the documentation required to enter the United States. 

If you are a lawful U.S. permanent resident or visitor on a visa, make sure you have your residency travel documentation, visa or green card when traveling. If you're visiting for a short time, make sure to check if you need a visa. Find U.S. Visa Information

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Get or Renew a U.S. Passport

Visa or other entry/residency documentation

Find U.S. Visa Information

Unless you’re a national of a Visa Waiver country, citizens of other countries visiting the United States generally need a visa, a document declaring your reason for visiting the United States for business, tourism, leisure or a combination of reasons.

Apply for a Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Traveling to the United States? The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requires travelers to submit an online request for travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the United States. This allows visitors from  participating countries  to get speedy approval for travel to the U.S. for business or pleasure for 90 days or less without first obtaining a visa. For more information, visit the  VWP website .

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I-94 Form Information

When entering the United States, the I-94 form shows the arrival and departure records of nonimmigrant visitors with a visa to visit the United States. The I-94 form must be completed by everyone except United States citizens, returning resident aliens, aliens with immigrant visas, Canadian citizens visiting or in-transit, people who completed a 1-94W.

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When entering the United States on a Delta Air Lines flight, you’ll have access to the Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks when arriving at the airline’s international gateways in Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Detroit (DTW), Los Angeles (LAX), Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), New York (JFK) and Seattle (SEA). A little like small ATMs, you can speed through customs when you use these machines.

Mobile Passport App

For U.S. and Canadian Citizens, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has partnered with Airside Mobile and Airports Council International to develop an app that facilitates a more time efficient process through U.S. Customs in Atlanta (ATL) and Seattle (SEA).  Mobile Passport Control (MPC) | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov)   enables customers to submit their passport and customs declaration information via their smartphone or tablet rather than via APC kiosks.

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See more information about U.S. passport and visa requirements, or resources to help you prepare for your visit to the United States from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or find health information for different destinations through the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Arrival/Departure Forms: I-94 and I-94W

Foreign visitors to the U.S. no longer need to complete paper Customs and Border Protection Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record or Form I-94W Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Record . Those who need to prove their legal-visitor status—to employers, schools/universities or government agencies—can access their CBP arrival/departure record information online. CBP now gathers travelers’ arrival/departure information automatically from their electronic travel records.

Now at the land border, travelers will be issued I-94s electronically and will no longer receive a paper I-94 stub. CBP encourages travelers requiring an I-94 to use the CBP One™ mobile app or the CBP I-94 website to apply for their I-94. For Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers, an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is now required for entry and must be obtained prior to arriving at the U.S. land border. VWP travelers are encouraged to use the I-94 website or CBP One™ mobile app to apply for an I-94 in advance.

If a traveler would like a paper Form I-94, the traveler can print their own I-94 Form from the I-94 website using "Get Most Recent I-94" or by using the same option on the CBP One™ mobile application. A paper form can be requested during the inspection process but all such requests will be accommodated in a secondary setting.

If travelers need the information from their Form I-94 admission record to verify immigration status or employment authorization, they are encouraged to get their I-94 Number from the I-94 website or by using the CBP One™ mobile app. Upon exiting the U.S., travelers issued a paper Form I-94 should surrender it to the commercial carrier, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), or to CBP upon departure. If you received an electronic I-94 upon arrival by air or sea or land and depart via land, your departure may not be recorded accurately. A departure will be recorded if you depart via land and re-enter the United States prior to the expiration date stamped in your passport. If you are not a resident of Canada or Mexico and you receive an electronic I-94 and depart via land but do not re-enter the United States prior to the expiration date stamped on your passport, you may want to travel with evidence of your departure into Canada or Mexico. Evidence of departure can include, but is not limited to, entry stamps in a passport, transportation tickets, pay stubs and/or other receipts. A traveler can request an entry stamp from CBSA when entering Canada or from the Instituto Nacional de Migracion (INM) when entering Mexico.

Otherwise, when leaving via air or sea, CBP will record the departure electronically via manifest information provided by the carrier or by CBP.

This automation streamlines the entry process for travelers, facilitates security and reduces federal costs. CBP estimates that the automated process will save the agency $15.5 million a year.

For more information and for answers to frequently asked questions, see the I-94 Fact Sheet .

The CBP INFO Center offers questions and answers for I-94 .

Beginning in May 2019, I-94 numbers will be alphanumeric. Currently, I-94 numbers are 11 digits long and only contain numbers. In order to minimize program impact resulting from the depletion of numeric-only I-94 numbers and to create a long-term solution for the creation of new numbers, CBP is switching to alphanumeric I-94s. I-94 numbers will remain at 11 characters but will follow the format of 9 digits, followed by a letter in the 10th position, and a digit in the 11th position. Unexpired I-94s issued in the current numeric-only format will continue to be valid until the Admit Until Date printed on the paper I-94 and/or the date displayed on the I-94 website .

14 Jul 20:53

If you want to visit the United States from a Visa Waiver Program country, the ESTA application is the simplest way to get travel permission. All applicants will be assigned an ESTA application number, which is a random alphanumeric 16 character sequence that will allow them to be identified by Customs and Border Protection. This essay will explain what EAN is and why it is important.

The purpose of ESTA application number

Personal information cannot be gleaned from the ESTA application number. However, you may obtain the status of your pending ESTA application along with your passport number and birth date. The ESTA Visa number is a digital connection to the ESTA travel application profile that is generated at random.

After you apply, you may check the status of your ESTA using your unique number on a regular basis. There are many ESTA statuses available. You can only check the status online. If the application status is Payment Pending, it did not reach the Department of Homeland Security and will not be processed until you pay the fee within seven days. The No Application Found condition indicates that you must reapply for ESTA.

The ESTA application number and authorization number are identical for authorized applications. The ESTA application number for candidates who are turned down will be Travel Not Authorized. Without a travel permission, you cannot go for vacation or transit through the USA .

TRAVELING TO THE UNITED STATES?

Do You Have U.S. ESTA VISA Travel Authorization? If You Have ESTA Application, Check if it is Still Valid!

Is ESTA a guarantee of entrance into the United States? Normally, the answer is affirmative, but during pandemics, the American government may issue extra requests and/or travel prohibitions, so you should visit the official ESTA page for updates on travel status.

To determine whether the ESTA permission number is real, go to the ESTA application status page. If you successfully filed for an ESTA, you may learn all you need to know about travel insurance. Pay close attention to health insurance since healthcare prices in the United States may be prohibitively expensive.

Bottom line

The ESTA application number is a unique random number provided to each applicant and serves as the link to your application. To check the status, you will need additional personal information such as your passport number and trip details. If you want to go to the United States, you should write down or retain the ESTA visa number, which also serves as an authorization number for successful applicants.

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Legal disclaimer: Herewith we inform that https://estatousa.com/ is a privately owned service provider specializing in Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), advising and helping travellers to prepare data for submission. We are not representatives of the U.S. embassy and we are not related to the U.S. government.

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A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.

Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. The Visa section of this website is all about U.S. visas for foreign citizens to travel to the United States.

(Note: U.S. citizens don’t need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit. In this situation, when planning travel abroad, learn about visa requirements by country, see country information in the International Travel Section section of this website.)

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Where is the visa number on a U.S. visa?

Home » Where is the visa number on a U.S. visa?

July 25, 2021

The visa number, also called a visa foil number, is a red number that is generally printed on the bottom right side of newer visa documents. In most cases, the U.S. visa number contains eight numeric characters. In some cases, the number contains one letter followed by seven numeric characters.

Location of the Visa Number

Over time, the U.S. Department of State has changed the location of the visa number. The examples below may help you find your number.

Most travelers need a visa and passport to enter the United States. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry will collect your visa number to verify your authorization to enter. The number is temporary if you have a nonimmigrant visa (such as a B-2 visitor or F-1 student visa). The visa number is permanent for immigrant visas (green cards).

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In addition to the number, U.S. visas generally contain the following information:

• Issuing Port Name – typically the U.S. embassy where the visa as issued
• Visa Holder’s Last name
• Visa Holder’s First Name
• Sex – indicates the gender of the person as F (female) or M (male)
• Date of Birth
• Nationality
• Passport Number
• Visa type – indicates the category of visa
• Entries – indicates the number of times the visa may be used to enter the U.S. (S for single entry or M for multiple entries)
• Issuing Date – when the visa was issued
• Expiration Date – when the visa expires and is no longer valid for entry
• Annotations – notes left by the U.S. embassy adjudicators

Immigrant Visa Number Availability

Immigrant visa number availability is a different concept all together. U.S. immigration law limits the number of immigrant visas (green cards) that are available each year. Therefore, there is only a certain amount of “immigrant visa numbers” each year. Even if USCIS approves an I-130 petition, there may be several people waiting for an immigrant visa number already. As a result, it could take several years to get your immigrant visa number. Learn more about family-based immigration and how to read the visa bulletin to determine when your immigrant visa number is available.

To get a family-based immigrant visa number, the U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.

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