You’re planning only a brief visit to the US. Do you really need to apply for a visa, just for that? If you’re from one of 42 countries, probably not. In that case, you can apply for what’s called a visa waiver. It is what it sounds like: permission to enter the US for a brief stay. “Brief” in this case means fewer than 90 days. That may be all you need to complete your work assignment, visit family in the US, or figure out your long-term plans.
To request a visa waiver, you need to complete what’s called an ESTA application (ESTA is short for “Electronic System for Travel Authorization”). The application is relatively easy, but some people find it confusing, others are in tricky situations, and others aren’t sure whether they are eligible for a visa waiver or whether they are better off getting a visa.
If you’d like help with your visa waiver application, I can help. You don’t need to have a “big” case, an urgent case, or complicated immigration status: Enlisting an immigration attorney is still a smart move, if you want to make sure your application has the best chance of being approved and the least chance of being rejected. I can help you fix and prevent errors, and anticipate and avoid problems. My clients have come from many of the 42 countries on the list.
If you end up wanting or needing to stay in the US for longer, you’ll need a visa of one type or another. Of course, I can also help you get a visa if you need one.
Contact me, Boston immigration attorney Giselle M. Rodriguez, to get help on your visa waiver / ESTA application.