Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) Advisory
The Visa Waiver Program allows eligible nationals of designated countries to travel to the United States for short-term business or tourism without obtaining a visa, for stays of up to 90 days. Travelers must obtain advance authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel.
ESTA approval authorizes boarding but does not guarantee admission, and travelers must comply strictly with visitor activity limitations. Prior refusals, overstays, criminal history, or frequent travel patterns may increase the risk of entry denial at the port of entry.
Cohen Visa advises travelers and businesses on ESTA eligibility, risk assessment, prior immigration history, and strategic decisions between ESTA travel and visa-based entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Visa Waiver Program and ESTA
The Visa Waiver Program includes designated countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Australia, and many others. Eligibility depends on nationality and other factors. Cohen Visa advises on ESTA eligibility and risk assessment.
No. ESTA approval authorizes boarding but does not guarantee admission. Travelers must comply strictly with visitor activity limitations. CBP officers at the port of entry make the final admission decision.
Prior refusals, overstays, criminal history, or frequent travel patterns may increase the risk of entry denial at the port of entry. Cohen Visa advises on risk assessment and strategic decisions between ESTA travel and visa-based entry.
ESTA authorization is generally valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever is sooner. It allows multiple entries for stays of up to 90 days per visit for business or tourism.