Frequently Asked Questions
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A U.S. visa is an official document issued by a U.S. consulate or embassy, granting permission to travel to the United States for a specific purpose, such as tourism, business, study, or work.
Travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who plan to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, transit, or short-term medical purposes must apply for an ESTA before boarding their flight or cruise.
An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can use it for multiple entries during this period.
No, an ESTA is not a visa. It is a travel authorization for VWP travelers. If you do not qualify for an ESTA, you must apply for a U.S. visa.
You will receive an email notification with your ESTA status. If approved, the authorization is electronically linked to your passport.
While the ESTA is electronically linked to your passport, we recommend printing a copy of the approval for your records.
If the mistake involves incorrect passport details, incorrect name or any personal information, you must submit a new application.
Yes. Your ESTA is directly linked to your passport number. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ESTA.
If your ESTA is denied, you may need to apply for a visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It is not a visa but a required travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers.
Travelers from countries that are not part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or individuals planning to stay for purposes not covered by the ESTA (e.g., work, study) must apply for a visa.
The process generally involves:
- Completing the DS-160 application form online
- Paying the visa application fee
- Scheduling a visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy
- Attending the interview with the required documentation
Processing times vary based on visa type and embassy workload. On average, visitor visas (B1/B2) take a few weeks to a few months.
You will be informed at the interview or via email. If approved, the visa will be placed in your passport and returned to you.
Typically, up to six months per visit for B-1/B-2 visas, but the exact duration is determined by the CBP officer upon arrival.
Most applicants between ages 14 and 79 must attend an in-person interview. Children, seniors, and certain renewal applicants may be exempt.
If your visa is still valid but your passport has expired, you can travel with both your old and new passports, provided the visa remains undamaged.
Some embassies offer expedited appointments for emergency situations like medical needs, urgent business travel, or funerals.
Yes, you can apply for a Canadian eTA even if you have a criminal record, provided the offenses are minor. Serious criminal convictions may prevent you from obtaining an eTA. For minor infractions, like a speeding ticket, or if the statute of limitations for past offenses has expired, you can still apply. However, you may need to submit additional documentation for review during the application process.
A Canada eTA allows visitors to stay for up to six months per visit. Be sure to depart Canada on or before the date specified by the border services officer.
Yes, you can apply for a Canada eTA multiple times. However, an eTA is usually valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first. If you get a new passport, you'll need to apply for a new eTA, as it is tied to your passport number. Additionally, changes to your travel plans or personal information may require you to reapply for an updated eTA.
A Canada eTA allows individuals to visit for various reasons, including tourism, business, or transiting through the country. It is available to travelers from eligible countries.
Yes, if your passport is lost, stolen or it expired. However, once approved, your eTA is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can enter Canada multiple times, but each visit must not exceed 6 months.
Generally, tourists applying for a Canada eTA do not need to disclose their bank balance. The application process primarily involves filling out an online form, and financial details are typically not required for approval. While there may be occasional requests for additional information or supporting documents, providing a bank balance is usually not necessary for eTA approval.
With a Canadian eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), you can visit Canada multiple times over a 5-year period from the date of issuance. However, each stay must not exceed 6 months. To ensure a smooth entry, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates. This passport validity helps avoid any complications with your travel plans. In summary, an eTA permits multiple visits within a 5-year timeframe, with each visit limited to 6 months, so keep your passport updated for a hassle-free travel experience.
To enter Canada, you must have a valid passport linked to an approved eTA. While it's not necessary to print your eTA, your passport must be associated with it upon arrival. An eTA cannot be obtained at the border, and if you arrive without one while traveling by air, you will be denied entry. However, if you're traveling by land or sea and are a citizen of an eTA-eligible country, a U.S. citizen, or a U.S. Green Card holder, you do not need an eTA to enter Canada.
No, lawful permanent residents of the United States holding a U.S. Green Card do not require an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Canada. However, it is important to carry your valid Green Card as proof of your immigration status when traveling to Canada.
A Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is mandatory for travelers from visa-exempt countries when entering Canada by air.
The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a digital travel permit required for visa-exempt visitors traveling to the United Kingdom. It allows eligible travelers to enter the UK for short-term stays, including tourism, business, or transit.
The ETA is typically valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until the passport it’s linked to expires, whichever comes first.
Once approved, the ETA will be electronically linked to your passport. You will receive a confirmation via email.
No. The ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
Yes, travelers of all ages, including infants, need their own ETA to enter the UK.
If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new UK ETA, as it is electronically linked to your passport number.
If your application is denied, you’ll receive an explanation. You may be able to reapply or apply for a standard visa if needed.
You’ll need a valid passport from an eligible country, a recent photograph, and a payment method for the application fee.