Visas
Because of recent changes in passport and visa requirements for travel to the U.S., we urge you to make your travel plans and apply for your visa as soon as possible. Please visit www.unitedstatesvisas.us for the most current information on visa policies, how to get a visa, visa news or to locate a consular office.
ESTA Requirements Begin for Travelers to U.S.
International visitors can now apply for travel authorization online. The tool is easy, free and available in 16 languages. Click here to get started. Need more information? Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about ESTA.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
Important Notices:
Effective July 1, 2009, all Visa Waiver Program (VWP) emergency or temporary passports must be electronic passports (e-Passports) to be eligible for travel to the United States under the VWP. This includes VWP applicants who present emergency or temporary passports to transit the United States. Learn more. Review the CBP Website notice.
ESTA: As of January 12, 2009, a valid ESTA approval is required for all Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to travel to the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a free, automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the VWP. It collects the same information as the paper I-94W form that VWP travelers fill out en route to the United States. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. An ESTA authorization generally will be valid for up to two years. Authorizations will be valid for multiple entries into the United States. DHS recommends that travelers submit an ESTA application as soon as they begin making travel plans.
Learn more about ESTA on the DHS Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website, www.cbp.gov. ESTA applications may be completed FREE online at the official DHS website. Review the important DHS Advisory Warning about unauthorized third-party ESTA application related web sites.
- NEW COUNTRIES ADDED: The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) was expanded to include the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, the Republic of Korea, and the Slovak Republic in late 2008. Review the Visa Waiver Program quick reference handout to learn about VWP travel.
- PASSPORT REQUIREMENTS: Specific passport requirements apply to all VWP travelers. See What do I need to know about VWP MRP and e-Passport requirements? for more information.
Requesting a Letter of Invitation to InfoComm
Everyone requiring a visa must complete a request form and supply their passport number. Once approved, your Letter of Invitation will be sent via U.S. mail, unless you wish to provide your account number for international UPS or FedEx. You may also request a faxed copy or PDF to be emailed to you. Please note: Embassy Consular offices generally require more than a month to schedule an interview and process visas.
Apply for a Visa as Soon as Possible
Recently, the U.S. has updated its visa policies to increase security for our citizens and visitors. It will likely take you longer to get a visa than it used to, and you will find that a few new security measures have been put into place. For details that may apply specifically to your country, see information posted by your nearest consulate or embassy. To learn more, read this step-by-step guide to the visa process.
- Please note: InfoComm International cannot assist you with the visa application or interview process. InfoComm International cannot contact the embassy or consulate on your behalf to support your visa application.