The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system used by the United States to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for Polish Citizens in Poland. It is not a visa but a mandatory travel authorization for citizens of VWP countries.
What is ESTA?
ESTA is an online system that allows citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries (Polish Citizens in Poland) to travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without obtaining a visa. It is valid for up to 90 days per visit and is mandatory for all eligible travelers, including children.
Benefits of ESTA
- Visa-Free Travel:
- Allows citizens of VWP countries to travel to the U.S. without applying for a visa.
- Quick and Easy Application:
- The application process is entirely online and typically takes 10-15 minutes to complete.
- Fast Approval:
- Most applications are approved within 72 hours, and many are approved instantly.
- Multiple Entries:
- ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first), allowing multiple trips to the U.S. during this period.
- Cost-Effective:
- The application fee is $21, which is significantly lower than the cost of a U.S. visa.
Who Needs ESTA?
ESTA is required for:
- Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries traveling to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit.
- Travelers entering the U.S. by air or sea.
- Travelers staying in the U.S. for up to 90 days.
ESTA Requirements
To apply for ESTA, you must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship:
- You must be a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country. As of 2023, there are 40 participating countries, including most EU member states, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea.
- Valid Passport:
- You must have a valid passport from a VWP country. The passport must be an e-passport (with an embedded electronic chip) if issued on or after October 26, 2006.
- Travel Purpose:
- Your trip must be for tourism, business, or transit purposes. ESTA cannot be used for work, study, or long-term stays.
- No Visa:
- You must not hold a valid U.S. visa. If you have a visa, you must use it instead of ESTA.
- Application Fee:
- You must pay the **
- 21applicationfee∗∗(includesa
- 21applicationfee∗∗(includesa4 processing fee and a $17 authorization fee).
How to Apply for ESTA
The application process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- Visit the official ESTA website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
- Fill out the application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
- Pay the $21 fee using a valid credit or debit card.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
- Most applications are approved within 72 hours. You will receive an email with your ESTA status.
Step 4: Print or Save Your ESTA
- Once approved, print or save a copy of your ESTA authorization for your records. You do not need to present a physical copy at the border, but it is recommended.
Key Features of ESTA
- Validity: ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).
- Duration of Stay: Each visit to the U.S. must not exceed 90 days.
- Multiple Entries: You can use ESTA for multiple trips to the U.S. during its validity period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does it take to get ESTA approval?
- Most applications are approved within 72 hours, and many are approved instantly.
2. How much does ESTA cost?
- The application fee is 21$ (including processing fee and a $17 authorization fee).
3. How long is ESTA valid?
- ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).
4. Can I work in the U.S. with ESTA?
- No, ESTA does not allow you to work in the U.S. For work purposes, you must apply for a work visa.
5. Can I extend my stay in the U.S. with ESTA?
- No, the maximum stay allowed under ESTA is 90 days per visit. Extensions are not permitted.
6. Do children need ESTA?
- Yes, all travelers, including children, must have an approved ESTA to enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program.
7. What if my ESTA application is denied?
- If your ESTA application is denied, you must apply for a U.S. visa at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
8. Can I use ESTA if I have a criminal record?
- It depends on the nature of the offense. Certain criminal records may make you ineligible for ESTA, and you may need to apply for a visa instead.