Requirements for using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less. This is only if they they meet all requirements explained below. Travelers must be eligible to use the VWP and have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel.
If you are eligible to travel on the VWP, but prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor (B) visa. Transiting or traveling through the United States to Canada or Mexico is generally permitted for VWP travelers.
An example of the new required E-Passports
The following are examples of activities permitted while in the United States on the VWP
- Consult with business associates
- Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
- Attend short-term training (you may not be paid by any source in the United States with the exception of expenses incidental to your stay)
- Negotiate a contract
- Tourism
- Vacation (holiday)
- Visit with friends or relatives
- Medical treatment
- Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
- Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)
These are some examples of activities not permitted on the VWP and require visas for travel to the United States:
- Study, but only for credit
- Employment
- Work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
- Permanent residence in the United States
For more information on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) visit the U.S. State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website, or contact us directly for a consultation with an immigration professional.
