It has been made mandatory for US travelers from Visa Waiver Program
countries to get USA ETSA visa online
otherwise they won’t be allowed to enter into the US territory. The online visa
application is simplified to the extent where anyone including a kid can apply
for ETSA visa. Also it isn’t mandatory that the travelers fill their visa
applications.
What is ETSA?
ETSA stands for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization and it
came into force on 12 January 2009. It is a simple online visa application and
its objective is to prescreen the travelers. Only biometric information like
passport and contact details of the traveler are asked in the application. Also
a small sum of US $14 is charged as processing fee for the electronic visa.
Applications are available on government websites and also there are
third-party sites that help in obtaining electronic visa.
Guidelines for filling the visa application
ESTA application is
simple but one has to be careful while entering his details as a little mistake
in providing details could result in mismatch and denial of visa. Information
like contact details can be changed but crucial details like passport number
and date of issue can’t be edited. If a wrong passport number is entered then
the visa application will be turned down as the details provided won’t match
with the details available with US authorities.
Important information on electronic visa
The visa is provided for two years but it is deemed expired, if the
passport is cancelled or the visa holder gets a new passport. In both the
conditions, the traveler has to apply for a new electronic visa. Also the visa
is for staying in the US and its territories for a maximum of 90 days. If the
traveler intends to stay longer then a regular visa is needed.
How to apply for electronic visa?
Electronic visa applications can be sent online from government
websites. But applicants can also take advantage of third party sites that
provide comprehensive information along with the application. Since the
applicants have to carefully enter their details in the application, it is
better they first understand USA ESTA visa guidelines and then start filling the application.