Showing Articles for "ESTA"

In an era where digital processes are increasingly becoming the norm, the concept of an electronic visa (e-visa) is often discussed in the context of international travel. For many countries, e-visas have simplified the process of obtaining permission to enter, reducing paperwork and wait times. However, the United States does not currently offer foreign nationals electronic visas for U.S. travel. This…

Introduction Seattle, the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, is a bustling urban landscape that offers an exciting blend of modern innovation and rich history. Whether you’re looking to explore the iconic Space Needle, relish in the city's famous coffee culture, or discover its natural beauty, Seattle has something for everyone. But before you embark on your Seattle…

Introduction The Trump administration's opposition to sanctuary cities continues apace. News reports have been building throughout the first week of March to the effect that Jeff Sessions, the current Attorney General of the USA, is planning on suing California over its sanctuary city laws. Sanctuary cities are well known for the fact that they protect undocumented immigrants from laws and enforcement…

Introduction ESTA website problems are rare but can be frustrating for travelers on tight timelines. Website technical issues are inherent to any online system, especially those supporting a high volume of users. Although the ESTA systems maintains a high uptime of over 99%, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) typically performs necessary updates on the ESTA website on the weekends, most frequently…

Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States, is a treasure trove of history, politics, and culture. Home to iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian museums, it's a must-visit destination for any traveler keen on understanding the American narrative. But before you can immerse yourself in the depth of this city's offerings, there's the matter of…

Introduction The USA currently has a list of countries that participate in its 'visa waiver scheme'. This scheme enables travellers who fulfil certain criteria (for example, the absence of a criminal record and the absence of any other visa violations) to enter the USA for tourism purposes without a visa at the immigration officer's discretion, and to stay there for up to 90 days. Many of these countries,…

Introduction In January 2018, the White House shut down due to a dispute over the budget and the apportioning of government funds. Whilst shutdowns are not unheard of for any US government (in 2013, the government shut down under the Obama Administration due to a dispute about Obamacare legislation), what is notable about this shutdown is that it has been brought to bear directly on USA immigration…

Introduction Orlando, Florida, often referred to as the "Theme Park Capital of the World," offers a plethora of experiences that are both entertaining and enriching. However, before stepping into this magical city of roller coasters, majestic castles, and dazzling parades, there are some entry requirements that international visitors need to fulfill. This article aims to guide you through the processes…

Introduction One of the United States' most vibrant and culturally rich cities, New Orleans offers a unique blend of historical heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and diverse musical traditions. Whether you're interested in touring the French Quarter, partaking in the annual Mardi Gras celebrations, or exploring the various jazz clubs, there's something for everyone. But before you can soak in the…

Introduction We reported recently that the US government had caused confusion and chaos by making the process for gaining H-1B visas more arduous. This wave of changes also affected another type of visa: the L1 visa. This was mainly due to the Trump Administration's plans to include mandatory interviews and additional checks for applications to what had previously been a smooth and efficient visa…