Are you a Chilean citizen planning a trip to the United States? Understanding the visa requirements is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), clarifying whether Chileans can travel to the U.S. without a visa.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP): A Gateway for Chilean Travelers
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes (B visa category) for stays of up to 90 days without needing to obtain a visa. Chile was designated as a member of the VWP on February 28, 2014, and Chilean nationals have been able to travel to the U.S. under the program since March 31, 2014.
American flag waving, symbolizing travel to the United States
ESTA: Your Key to Visa-Free Travel
While the VWP eliminates the need for a traditional visa, Chilean citizens traveling to the U.S. under this program must obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before their trip. ESTA is an automated online system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the VWP.
How to Apply for ESTA
The official ESTA website is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. It is essential to use this official website to avoid scams and ensure the security of your personal information. The ESTA application fee is $21 per application. Be wary of third-party companies that charge additional fees to assist with ESTA registration, as they are not affiliated with the U.S. government.
ESTA Validity
An approved ESTA is typically valid for two years from the date of authorization, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows for multiple entries into the United States within that two-year period, as long as each visit does not exceed 90 days.
What If My ESTA is Denied?
If you are a citizen of a VWP partner country but receive a notification that you are no longer eligible to travel to the United States under the program, you will need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. It is recommended to apply for the visa at least three months before your intended travel date.
Applying for a Nonimmigrant Visa
To apply for a nonimmigrant visa, follow these steps:
- Pay the nonimmigrant visa application fee.
- Complete the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form at ceac.state.gov/genniv/.
- Schedule a visa appointment.
If your travel is urgent, you can request an expedited visa appointment. In your request, include the date and purpose of your travel, as well as a copy of the message you received from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding your ESTA status.
Important Considerations and Resources
- Official ESTA Website: Always use the official website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov) for ESTA applications.
- ESTA Fee: The current ESTA application fee is $21.
- Denied ESTA: If your ESTA is denied, apply for a nonimmigrant visa well in advance of your travel.
- CBP Resources: For questions related to ESTA, contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at www.cbp.gov/esta. You can also call the ESTA hotline at (202) 344-3710 or the CBP Customer Service Center at (202) 325-8000 or (877) 227-5511.
Conclusion: Traveling to the U.S. as a Chilean Citizen
For Chilean citizens planning short trips to the United States for tourism or business, the Visa Waiver Program and ESTA offer a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional visas. By understanding the requirements and following the proper procedures, Chileans can enjoy seamless travel experiences to the U.S. Always rely on official sources for information and be cautious of third-party services offering ESTA assistance for inflated fees. Ensure you apply for ESTA well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.
