Do You Qualify for US Travel Authorization?

Chip-enabled (biometric) passport

Your passport must include an embedded electronic chip storing biometric data. Look for the rectangular chip icon on the front cover — without it, an ESTA filing cannot proceed.

Passport valid through your stay

Authorities require that your travel document remains unexpired for the entire duration of your planned visit to the United States.

Citizenship in a participating nation

Only passport holders from one of the 42 Visa Waiver Program member states may file for this electronic authorization.

Leisure & sightseeing

Vacations, family visits, cultural exploration, and personal travel are all covered under the authorization program.

Professional engagements

Attending conferences, negotiating deals, or meeting clients is permitted — but direct employment with a US-based company is not.

International transit

Connecting through a US airport en route to a third country is an accepted use of this travel clearance.

Employment or academic enrollment

Working for a US employer, enrolling in a degree program, or performing media work requires a separate visa category.

Clean immigration record

Prior refusals of US entry or authorization denials may impact eligibility. Full and honest disclosure during filing is mandatory.

No disqualifying criminal history

Certain offenses — particularly those involving moral turpitude — can render an applicant ineligible for the waiver program.

Health-related admissibility

Specific communicable conditions listed under US public-health guidelines may disqualify applicants from waiver-program travel.

Maximum 90-day stays

Each entry under this authorization caps your visit at ninety consecutive days. The authorization itself remains active for up to two years.

Active email account

Your confirmation receipt, status updates, and approved authorization notification are all delivered electronically to this address.

Accepted payment card

A credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover) is needed to cover the service processing charge.

Trip outline (recommended)

Knowing your intended arrival date, accommodation address, and departure plans helps complete the form quickly and accurately.

Emergency contact details

You will be asked to provide the name and phone number of someone who is not traveling with you, in case authorities need to reach a contact.