Entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) – What happens at the port of entry?

Detailed information about admissions and entry to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program can be found on the DHS Customs Border Protection website at Visa Waiver Program and Admission to the United States.

VWP travelers are enrolled in the DHS US-VISIT program when they arrive at U.S. ports of entry. Travelers should be aware that by requesting admission under the Visa Waiver Program, they are generally waiving their right to review or appeal a CBP officer’s decision as to their application for admission at the port of entry. Likewise, if the traveler is later found to have violated the conditions of admission under the Visa Waiver Program, they do not have the right to contest a removal order.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA application collects the same information collected on Form I-94W. ESTA applications may be submitted at anytime prior to travel, though it is recommended travelers apply when they begin preparing travel plans.

The ESTA application now requires the traveler's country of birth information. This applies to new applications submitted on or after December 22, 2011 and does not apply to applications submitted prior to that date.

Your online Esta application form is available in several languages. Your local government agency may answer typical questions. To consult a lawyer is to your advantage. By doing so, your are assured that you paperwork and application will be completed properly. You have peace of mind that you are being looked after well and all required forms for entry into the United States have been submitted. For best results, you need an immigration/visa lawyers that specialize in this area of the law. The Travel Promotion Act of 2009 requires an additional $10 US from each ESTA applicant who is approved to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.  If your electronic travel authorization is denied, you are charged the processing fee only. You will not get any surprises like this when you hire an immigration specialist.