Travel Without a Visa: The Permit That Allows Entry to the United States

Visa-Free Entry to the US Available

42 Countries Can Apply

Permit Valid for Two Years

The American visa is an essential document for anyone wishing to visit the United States, as authorities require it for entry into the country.

However, there is an alternative that allows certain foreign nationals to travel without needing a visa, Green Card, or US citizenship—provided the visit is for tourism or business purposes.

This permit is especially convenient for those planning to travel in November and celebrate Thanksgiving Day, which this year falls on Thursday, the 27th.

It is one of the busiest times for tourism, so having a quick and simple process can make the trip easier.

What Is the US Visa Waiver Program?

US Visa Waiver Program Requirements – Photo Shutterstock

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a US government initiative that allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days, as long as the purpose is tourism or business.

RELATED: More Questions Added to the New US Citizenship Test; USCIS Confirms Changes Effective Today

Instead of the traditional visa, travelers must obtain an electronic authorization known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), available through the official government portal.

To qualify, visitors must have an electronic passport — that is, one that contains a chip with the holder’s biometric and biographical information.

Traveling to the United States Without a Visa: Eligible Countries

According to the Department of Homeland Security, 42 countries currently participate in the US Visa Waiver Program, according to Cronista.

These include:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.

Requirements and Validity of the Permit

PHOTO: Shutterstock

Citizens from these countries must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond their planned travel date. However, those from nations in the “Six-Month Club” are exempt from this rule.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, applicants must complete the following steps:

Have a valid passport from a US Visa Waiver Program country.

Provide an active email address.

Include a home address and phone number.

Provide emergency contact information.

Pay a $40 application fee.

Once approved, the ESTA authorization is valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

The application can be completed easily online through the official US Visa Waiver Program website.

With this system, travelers have a fast, secure, and practical alternative for short stays in the United States—without the need for a traditional visa.