Mr Viral
The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of 41 participating countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism without needing a visa. This program permits travellers to stay in the country for up to 90 days, which simplifies the process for millions of international visitors.
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Key features of the Visa Waiver ProgramThose travelling under the said VWP, will be required to meet certain criteria. Notably, all travellers must possess an e-Passport, which comes enhanced with an embedded electronic chip that stores biometric data, ensuring both the authenticity of the passport and the security of the traveller’s information.
Some important VWP passport requirements include:Machine-readable zones on the biographic page.
A digital chip containing biometric data, ensuring an extra layer of security.
A digital photograph printed directly onto the data page, not glued or laminated, to prevent fraud.
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Applying to travel under the Visa Waiver ProgramBefore travelling, all visitors under the VWP must apply for authorisation through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This automated system pre-screens travellers, ensuring they meet the necessary security standards before arriving in the US. It’s recommended to apply for ESTA authorisation as soon as travel plans are made, although approval typically only takes a short time.
List of countries participating in the said programme
Currently, 41 countries participate in the VWP, allowing their citizens easier access to the United States. They are as follows:
AndorraAustraliaAustriaBelgiumBruneiChileCroatiaCzech RepublicDenmarkEstoniaFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIcelandIrelandIsraelItalyJapanRepublic of KoreaLatviaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMaltaMonacoNetherlandsNew ZealandNorwayPolandPortugalSan MarinoSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSpainSwedenSwitzerlandTaiwanUnited KingdomThese countries meet strict security standards and maintain strong diplomatic ties with the US, ensuring that the Visa Waiver Program continues to function smoothly.
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How is the VWP beneficial?The Visa Waiver Program streamlines the process of travel, and lets travellers enjoy the freedom of visa-free travel. This programme has been helpful in enhancing economic and cultural exchange between the US and participating countries. Apart from the diplomatic ties, this program boosts tourism, fosters business opportunities, and allows millions of people to experience what the US has to offer with reduced visa application barriers.
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