United States · Tourist Visa
Tourist and visitor visa requirements, visa-free entry, duration, and application steps.
AI-drafted, editorially reviewed. Confirm specifics with the official authority.
Short visits to the United States use the B-1/B-2 visitor visa, unless you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program — nationals of participating countries travel for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA instead. B-visa applicants complete Form DS-160 and attend an interview at a US embassy or consulate. Visitor status never permits employment.
Short visits to the United States for tourism or business use the B-1/B-2 visitor visa, unless you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) — nationals of participating countries can travel for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA instead of a visa. Apply for the B visa at a US embassy/consulate; check eligibility and apply for ESTA on the official sites.
- The B-1 (business) / B-2 (tourism) visitor visa is the standard route for short visits.
- Visa Waiver Program nationals can visit up to 90 days with an approved ESTA instead of a visa.
- Visitor status does not permit employment in the US.
- Apply for the B visa at a US embassy/consulate (Form DS-160); apply for ESTA on the official CBP site.
- 1
Check which route applies to you
Check whether your nationality is in the Visa Waiver Program. VWP nationals use ESTA; everyone else applies for a B-1/B-2 visa.
- 2
Apply for ESTA or complete DS-160
VWP travellers apply for ESTA on the official CBP site before booking. Visa applicants complete the online Form DS-160 and print the confirmation page.
- 3
Pay the fee and book an interview
Pay the visa application fee and schedule an appointment at your nearest US embassy or consulate. Wait times vary by post, so book early.
- 4
Attend the consular interview
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt and any supporting documents on the purpose of travel and your ties to your home country.
- 5
Travel and respect the conditions
A visa or ESTA authorises travel; the officer at the port of entry decides admission and length of stay. Do not work, and leave before your authorised stay ends.
- Nationality checked against the Visa Waiver Program list
- ESTA approved, or Form DS-160 completed
- Application fee paid
- Consular interview booked and attended (visa route)
- Passport valid for the whole intended stay
- Proof of funds and onward or return travel ready
- No employment planned during the visit
- U.S. Visas — Visitor Visa (Department of State)
Official B-1/B-2 visitor-visa guide.
- ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) — CBP
Official travel authorisation for VWP nationals.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need a visa if I have an approved ESTA?
No. An approved ESTA replaces the visitor visa for Visa Waiver Program nationals travelling for up to 90 days. If you are not a VWP national, or want a longer stay, you need the B-1/B-2 visa instead.
How long can I stay as a visitor?
ESTA travel is capped at 90 days. On a B-1/B-2 visa the officer at the port of entry sets the admitted period, which can be longer. The visa's validity is not the same thing as your permitted stay.
Can I work or freelance while visiting?
No. Visitor status does not permit employment. B-1 covers business activities such as meetings, conferences and negotiations, but not productive work for a US employer or client.
Government portals
- The White House — Official residence and office of the US President — executive orders, policy briefings, press releases
- U.S. Department of State — US passport and visa services, travel warnings, embassy information worldwide
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) — Federal tax filing, refund status, ITIN/EIN applications, and Free File program
- USCIS — Green card, H-1B and work visas, naturalization, immigration benefits, and case status