Visa for Chicago, Illinois USA

Updated: Aug 24, 2023  | Tags: ESTA, USA Visa

Introduction

Chicago, the Windy City, stands as a testament to American ingenuity and resilience. Known for its impressive skyline, rich cultural history, and gastronomic delights (deep-dish pizza, anyone?), Chicago is a top destination for both international and domestic tourists. But before you can dive into all that this great American city has to offer, there's some essential paperwork to sort through, particularly if you're visiting from outside the United States. This article will guide you through the process of applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a U.S. visa, and then give you a brief tour of some must-see Chicago attractions.

ESTA or Visa: Which Do You Need?

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

The ESTA was established in 2009 to ease travel restrictions to the US for many European countries. Applying for an ESTA is easy and affordable, simply check the list 41 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to see if your country of citizenship is eligible for an ESTA. If you are eligible for ESTA, all you need to do is apply online and fill in an online form. For most cases, approval or denial is almost immediate, but we still suggest travelers to apply early. Once approved, your ESTA is valid for two years or up until the date of passport expiry, whichever date comes sooner. The ESTA allows travelers to visit the United States for up to 90 days for tourism, business, transit and medical purposes. If travelers are not eligible for an ESTA, they will require a visa for Chicago. A visa application takes considerably longer and requires an in-person interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

ESTA is not a visa, but rather a pre-screening that you complete online. If you’re eligible, the application process is straightforward:

• Apply Online: Fill in the application form questions. You’ll need a valid passport, a credit or debit card for payment, and an email address.
• Approval Time: Applications are usually processed within minutes, but it's advised to apply at least 72 hours before your departure.
• Duration: ESTA approval is generally valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

U.S. Visa

If you're not from a VWP country or plan to stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a visa. The most common visa types for tourists are the B-1: Business Visa and B-2: Tourist Visa.

A visa is a document issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad to permit foreign citizens to seek entry to the U.S. If your country of citizenship is not in the Visa Waiver Program, you will most likely need a visa for Chicago. Different types of visas are available depending on the purpose of your visit and how long you want to stay. A visa can be valid for multiple entries or just a limited number of entries. It may take a long time to obtain a visa, so you should check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate to make sure your visa can be issued on time for your date of travel. Individuals who have their ESTA approved or a valid U.S. visa can get started with their travel plans.

The visa application process is more complex and time-consuming than ESTA. It involves filling out the DS-160 form online, paying the visa fee, and attending an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Processing times can vary, so it's best to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

Factors Causing U.S. Visa Processing Delays

1. Incomplete Applications: Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid unnecessary delays.
2. Peak Seasons: During holidays and summer, there can be a backlog.
3. Security Checks: Additional security screening can extend the processing time.

Main Tourist Attractions in Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago

Art aficionados must not miss the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. The museum is home to a remarkable collection, including Grant Wood's "American Gothic" and Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte."

Millennium Park and Cloud Gate

Located in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is a hub of artistic activity and community events. The iconic "Cloud Gate," commonly known as "The Bean," offers a unique, distorted reflection of the city skyline.

Navy Pier

This lakeside pier offers an array of attractions, from rides and games to dining and cruises on Lake Michigan. It's a great place for families or anyone looking to relax and enjoy scenic views of the city.

Willis Tower Skydeck

For stunning 360-degree vistas of Chicago, make your way to the Willis Tower's Skydeck. For those with a taste for adventure, "The Ledge" awaits—a glass platform that juts out four feet from the building's 103rd floor.

The Magnificent Mile

For shopaholics and fashionistas, The Magnificent Mile is a stretch of Michigan Avenue offering a range of high-end stores, boutiques, and dining options.

The Field Museum

This natural history museum is perfect for those interested in everything from dinosaur skeletons to ancient Egyptian artifacts. Its most famous resident is Sue, the largest, most complete T. rex ever found.

Conclusion

Whether you need an ESTA or a visa to visit Chicago largely depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Regardless of the paperwork, the cultural and entertainment riches awaiting you in the Windy City make the effort well worthwhile. From its iconic skyline to its world-class museums, shopping districts, and outdoor spaces, Chicago offers something for every type of traveler.