Get Your United States Visa Online
Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and transit — explore America's endless possibilities
TrustpilotHow to Get Your United States Visa
Simple 4-step process — ESTA applications typically approved within 72 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your travel details, passport information, and eligibility questions. Our intelligent validation system checks every field against U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements in real-time, catching errors before submission and maximizing your approval chances.
2
Upload your documents
Submit a clear digital copy of your passport bio page. For B1/B2 visa applications requiring additional documentation, our system guides you through uploading travel history, financial proof, employment letters, and DS-160 form completion. Our document specialists verify everything meets U.S. embassy specifications.
3
We process your application
Your verified application is submitted directly to U.S. immigration authorities. For ESTA, most approvals arrive within 72 hours. For B1/B2 visas, we track your application status continuously and notify you immediately of interview scheduling and any updates via email and SMS.
4
Receive your travel authorization
Your approved ESTA is electronically linked to your passport — simply print a copy for your records! For B1/B2 visas, attend your embassy interview with our preparation guide. Welcome to the USA! Your American adventure begins now.
Visa types needed for United States
United States ESTA - 2 years, Multiple entry
The United States Electronic Travel Authorization provides access to New York, California, national parks, and American attractions. Valid for 2 Years with multiple entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
United States Visa Requirements & Entry Information
ESTA Travel Authorization
Up to 90 days
Electronic authorization for Visa Waiver Program travelers from 41 countries
B2 Tourist Visa
Up to 6 months
For tourism, vacation, and visiting family and friends
B1 Business Visa
Up to 6 months
For meetings, conferences, and business negotiations
C Transit Visa
Transit only
For travelers passing through the USA to another destination
Essential Requirements
- Valid passport for at least 6 months beyond stay
- Return or onward ticket from the United States
- Sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Travel and health insurance strongly recommended
- Proof of ties to home country
- Clean criminal record and no prior immigration violations
Visa Policy
The United States operates a comprehensive visa system that includes the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for citizens of 41 participating countries, and traditional nonimmigrant visas for all other travelers. As one of the world's most visited countries, the USA welcomes over 79 million international visitors annually.
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
The ESTA is a mandatory pre-screening authorization for citizens of VWP countries traveling to the United States by air or sea. Eligible countries include the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, and 35 other nations. ESTA costs $21 USD and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit. Most applications receive a decision within 72 hours.
B1/B2 Visitor Visas
Citizens of countries not participating in the VWP must apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The B1 visa is for business activities, while the B2 is for tourism and personal travel. Many applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa valid for up to 10 years with stays permitted up to 6 months per visit. Processing requires an in-person interview at the embassy.
Visa Requirements
Essential Documentation
All travelers to the United States must meet fundamental entry requirements regardless of their visa type:
Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay period. Many VWP countries have extended validity agreements, but 6 months is the safe standard.
Proof of funds: Evidence you can support yourself during your stay. Bank statements, credit cards, and employment verification demonstrate financial stability.
Ties to home country: Strong documentation showing you will return home, including employment, property, family obligations, and business interests.
Purpose of visit: Clear travel itinerary, hotel reservations, tour bookings, or invitation letters from U.S. hosts.
Travel history: Previous visa stamps and travel patterns that demonstrate compliance with immigration laws.
Additional B1/B2 Visa Requirements
Nonimmigrant visa applicants must complete the DS-160 online application, pay the $185 USD visa fee, schedule and attend an embassy interview, and provide passport-style photographs meeting strict U.S. specifications. Depending on nationality, additional documentation may be required.
Application Process
ESTA Application Process
Applying for an ESTA is straightforward and entirely online through the official CBP website or authorized service providers. You'll need your passport, travel itinerary, U.S. point of contact, and a credit card for the $21 fee. The application takes approximately 20-30 minutes and includes eligibility questions about health, criminal history, and previous travel. Most applications receive instant authorization or a decision within 72 hours. Once approved, your ESTA is electronically linked to your passport for 2 years.
B1/B2 Visa Application Process
The nonimmigrant visa process requires several steps. First, complete the DS-160 online application form — this comprehensive questionnaire covers personal, travel, work, and security information and can take 90+ minutes to complete. Next, pay the $185 USD Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee and schedule your interview appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Prepare thoroughly for the interview with all supporting documents organized. Processing times vary significantly by location, from a few days to several months.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The USA's vast size means there's an ideal time for every region. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures across most of the country and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is peak season with warm weather and school holidays — ideal for national parks and beaches but expect higher prices. Winter (December-February) is perfect for skiing in Colorado or Vermont and experiencing magical holiday celebrations in cities.
Regional Highlights
The Northeast offers historic cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. The Southeast provides Southern hospitality, beaches, and cultural heritage. The Midwest features the Great Lakes, Chicago, and heartland charm. The Southwest showcases stunning desert landscapes, the Grand Canyon, and vibrant cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix. The West Coast delivers California beaches, Pacific Northwest forests, and tech hubs. Hawaii and Alaska offer unique tropical and wilderness experiences.
Practical Information
The USA uses the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted. English is the primary language, with Spanish common in many areas. Tipping 15-25% is customary in restaurants and for services. Healthcare is expensive — comprehensive travel insurance is essential as medical costs can be significant for visitors.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
2,500+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.9Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Applied for ESTA through DoVisa for my New York trip. Approved in less than 24 hours! The process was incredibly simple and the confirmation came quickly. Highly recommend!"
"Needed a B2 visa for a family visit to California. DoVisa guided me through every step of the DS-160 form and interview prep. Got my 10-year visa approved!"
"ESTA application was straightforward. Got approved in about 48 hours. Would have liked real-time status updates, but overall great service."
"Third time using DoVisa for USA trips. Always reliable and their customer service is excellent. Made our family Disney World trip planning stress-free!"
"Business visa application was complex but DoVisa support team walked me through everything. Interview prep materials were invaluable. Successfully approved!"
"Good experience overall with ESTA application. Processing took the full 72 hours in my case, but everything worked out perfectly for my Las Vegas trip."
"Excellent service! Applied for ESTA and it was approved overnight. The step-by-step guide made everything crystal clear. Will definitely use DoVisa again!"
"Was nervous about my first US visa application. DoVisa team answered all my questions patiently. Now I have a 10-year B1/B2 visa. Amazing support!"
"Applied for B2 tourist visa to visit my brother in Texas. The document checklist was comprehensive and interview tips were spot-on. Approved on first try!"
"ESTA renewed easily through DoVisa. Minor website slowdown during peak hours but customer support resolved my payment concern within minutes."
"Group ESTA application for our company's US conference went smoothly. All 8 team members approved within 24 hours. Professional service throughout!"
"Fantastic experience applying for my USA tourist visa. DoVisa's embassy interview preparation guide was incredibly helpful. Exploring California now!"
United States Visa FAQs
What is the difference between ESTA and a B1/B2 visa?
The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an automated system for citizens of 41 Visa Waiver Program countries traveling to the USA by air or sea. It costs $21, is valid for 2 years, and allows stays up to 90 days for tourism or business. The B1/B2 visa is a traditional nonimmigrant visa for citizens of non-VWP countries. It requires an embassy interview, costs $185, can be valid for up to 10 years, and allows stays up to 6 months per visit. Your nationality determines which option applies — you cannot choose between them.
Which countries are eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)?
Currently, 41 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program. These include: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Citizens must also have an e-Passport with a digital chip to use ESTA.
How long does ESTA approval take?
Most ESTA applications receive a decision within 72 hours, though many are approved much faster — often within minutes to a few hours. The system processes applications 24/7, including weekends and holidays. However, we recommend applying at least 72 hours before travel to allow buffer time for any unexpected delays or additional review. If your application status shows 'Authorization Pending,' the system is still processing and a decision will typically come within 72 hours.
How long is an ESTA valid?
An approved ESTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this validity period, you can make unlimited trips to the United States without reapplying, as long as each stay doesn't exceed 90 days. If you get a new passport, change your name, change your gender, change your country of citizenship, or if any of your ESTA application answers change, you must apply for a new ESTA.
What documents do I need for a US B1/B2 visa interview?
For your embassy interview, bring: Valid passport valid for 6+ months beyond your intended stay; DS-160 confirmation page with barcode; Interview appointment letter; Visa fee payment receipt; Passport-style photograph meeting US specifications; Proof of ties to home country (employment letter, property documents, family evidence); Financial documents (bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns); Travel itinerary and accommodation bookings; and Invitation letter if visiting family or attending business meetings. Organize documents clearly for the consular officer.
Can I extend my stay in the United States?
ESTA travelers cannot extend their 90-day stay — there is no extension option for VWP entries. If you need to stay longer, you must leave before 90 days and return for a new 90-day period, or apply for a different visa category before entry. B1/B2 visa holders can request an extension by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before their authorized stay expires. Apply at least 45 days before expiration. Extensions are granted in increments up to 6 months. Overstaying is serious and can result in future visa denials and entry bans.
Will a criminal record affect my ESTA or visa application?
Yes, criminal history can significantly impact your application. Certain offenses result in automatic ESTA denial, including crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, multiple convictions with combined sentences of 5+ years, and certain security-related activities. If you have any criminal record, you must answer honestly on both ESTA and visa applications — lying is grounds for permanent visa ineligibility. Those with disqualifying criminal histories may still apply for a B1/B2 visa and explain circumstances during the interview, though approval is not guaranteed.
Do I need a visa to transit through a US airport?
Yes, unlike many countries, the United States requires transit travelers to clear immigration even if just connecting to another flight. VWP country citizens need a valid ESTA, while others need a B1/B2 or C (transit) visa. There is no sterile transit option — you will enter the US officially, go through customs, and must be admissible. This applies even if you're not leaving the airport and your bags are checked through. Plan adequate connection time (minimum 2-3 hours) for immigration processing.
Can I work in the USA with ESTA or a B1/B2 visa?
No, neither ESTA nor B1/B2 visas permit employment in the United States. These are strictly for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, negotiations, conferences, or attending events — not for productive labor. Working without authorization is illegal and results in deportation, entry bans, and permanent visa ineligibility. B1 business activities are limited to meetings, conferences, and negotiating contracts — not performing actual work or receiving US-source income. For employment, you need a work visa like H-1B, L-1, or O-1.
How much money do I need to show for a US visa?
There's no fixed amount required, but you must demonstrate ability to support your entire stay without unauthorized employment. Factors considered include length of stay, accommodation costs, planned activities, and whether you have hosts. General guidelines suggest $100-200 per day of stay, though staying with family reduces this significantly. Provide recent bank statements (3-6 months), employment verification, and credit card statements. B1/B2 applicants should show evidence of stable income and assets that demonstrate you won't overstay seeking work.
What is the ESTA denial rate?
The exact ESTA denial rate isn't publicly disclosed, but estimates suggest approximately 5-10% of applications are denied. Common denial reasons include previous visa violations or overstays, travel to certain countries (Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen), criminal history, previous US visa denial, inaccurate application information, and security concerns. If denied ESTA, you can still apply for a B1/B2 visa at a US embassy and explain any concerning factors during your interview.
Can I apply for ESTA if I was previously denied a US visa?
If you've ever been denied a US visa for any reason, you are generally not eligible for ESTA and should apply for a B1/B2 visa instead. The ESTA application asks about prior visa denials — you must answer honestly. Lying or providing false information results in permanent ineligibility for visas to the United States. With a B1/B2 visa application, you can explain the previous denial circumstances and provide updated documentation. Previous denials don't automatically mean future denial if circumstances have changed.
How long can I stay in the USA with each entry?
ESTA/VWP travelers can stay a maximum of 90 days per visit — this cannot be extended. B1/B2 visa holders are typically admitted for up to 6 months, though the exact duration is determined by the CBP officer at entry and stamped in your passport. You must not exceed this authorized stay period. Note that B1/B2 visa validity (up to 10 years) is different from authorized stay — the visa lets you travel to the US, while the I-94 admission stamp shows how long you can stay on that particular visit.
What happens at US immigration when I arrive?
Upon arrival, proceed to the CBP checkpoint. Present your passport (ESTA is verified electronically; visa holders show their visa). The officer will ask about trip purpose, accommodation, length of stay, and may request supporting documents. Answer honestly and confidently. Officers verify your identity via fingerprints and photograph, review your travel history, and determine admission. Most interactions take 5-15 minutes. Upon admission, you'll receive an I-94 form (electronic for air/sea arrivals) showing your authorized stay duration. Officers can deny entry even with valid ESTA/visa if concerns arise.
Can I visit Canada or Mexico and return to the USA on the same ESTA?
Yes, but with important limitations. ESTA travelers can make short trips to Canada, Mexico, or Caribbean islands and return to the US without the 90-day clock resetting — the original 90 days continues counting. This prevents using neighboring countries to continuously 'restart' stays. If you travel to another country and return, you must still leave the US within your original 90-day period. B1/B2 visa holders get a new I-94 and potentially new stay duration upon each entry, offering more flexibility for regional travel.
What is the 90-day rule for ESTA travelers?
ESTA travelers must leave the United States within 90 consecutive days from entry. This is a hard limit with no extensions possible. The 90 days includes weekends and holidays. Plan your departure with buffer time — if your 90 days ends on a Tuesday, book a flight leaving Monday or earlier. Overstaying even one day makes you ineligible for future ESTA travel and may result in a 3-year or 10-year entry ban. Brief trips to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean don't reset this 90-day clock.
Do I need travel insurance for the USA?
While travel insurance isn't a mandatory entry requirement, it is strongly recommended — the US has the world's most expensive healthcare system. A simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, ambulance rides $500+, and hospitalization can reach tens of thousands per day. Without insurance, you're personally liable for all medical costs. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage provides essential protection. Ensure your policy covers the USA specifically and has adequate coverage limits ($100,000+ recommended for medical).
What is Global Entry and how does it relate to ESTA?
Global Entry is a trusted traveler program providing expedited clearance through US immigration. Members use automated kiosks at major airports, skipping regular immigration lines. It costs $100 for 5 years and requires an application, background check, and interview. Global Entry members receive TSA PreCheck for faster domestic security screening. Citizens of select countries (UK, Germany, South Korea, and others) can apply. While separate from ESTA, Global Entry members still need valid ESTA or visa. It's valuable for frequent US visitors — approval provides 5 years of faster arrivals.
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