If you wish to travel to the U.S. for vacation or business under visa waiver, then you will need to comply with the ESTA form.
This electronic document is available on the Internet and allows you to travel to the USA. You’ll need to apply via a specialized website or the official U.S. government website.
ESTA forms are only available online
The ESTA document is permanently available on the Internet through authorized ESTA websites or the official website. You don’t have to go to the American embassy to obtain this document. Don’t forget to bring your biometric or electronic passport with you when you apply. You’ll be asked for your passport number, expiry date, and so on.
Unlike the old green form, you can fill in the online form in French. After submitting the form, you must wait for it to be validated by the U.S. DHS. Only after validation of the document can you embark for the United States. You should be aware, however, that it is the American authorities who decide whether or not you can enter the country. Even with a valid passport and a valid ESTA, foreign nationals are sometimes turned away at the border by U.S. government officials.
Where can I find the official ESTA document?
Unlike applying for a U.S. visa, you don’t need to contact the U.S. embassy to obtain your ESTA. Only online requests are taken into account.
Since the introduction of ESTA authorization, the number of sites offering the online form in their own name has risen steadily. An honest, independent site is the solution for people anxious about having their application rejected because of an error in the form.
For anyone wishing to take this step themselves, simply visit the official website.
ESTA document to print, optional or mandatory?
As its name suggests, ESTA is an electronic document. Of course, you’re under no obligation toprint it. You can access it online using your name, passport number and ESTA number. However, the American authorities make it possible to print the travel authorization. You are then free to download and print it.
What is the alternative to ESTA, in case of refusal?
If your ESTA is denied, you can still apply for a visa to travel to the USA. However, it is advisable to think about the reasons for this refusal. Did you make a mistake filling in the ESTA form? Apply again. Not eligible? Apply for a USA visa.
Sometimes the application is refused because your ePassport has exceeded its validity period. You will therefore need to apply for a new passport for your stay in the USA.
