Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
INTERNATIONAL VISITORS
ENTERING THE REGION
A passport is required for all foreign citizens. Unless eligible under the Visa Waiver Pro-
gram, foreign travelers must also have a tourist visa.
Travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program must register with the US govern-
is better, since if denied, travelers must get a visa. Registration is valid for two years.
Upon arriving in the US, all foreign visitors must register in the US-Visit program, which
entails having two index fingers scanned and a digital photo taken. For information on US-
VISAS
All visitors should reconfirm entry requirements and visa guidelines before arriving. You
can get visa information through
www.usa.gov
,
but the
US State Dept
(
www.travel.state.gov
)
maintains the most comprehensive visa information, with lists of con-
sulates and downloadable application forms.
US Citizenship & Immigration Services
(USCIS;
www.uscis.gov
)
mainly serves immigrants, not temporary visitors.
The
Visa Waiver Program
allows citizens of three dozen countries to enter the USA for
stays of 90 days or less without first obtaining a US visa. See the ESTA website for a cur-
rent list. Under this program you must have a nonrefundable return ticket and an 'e-pass-
port' with digital chip. Passports issued/renewed before October 26, 2006, must be
machine-readable.
Visitors who don't qualify for the Visa Waiver Program need a visa. Basic requirements
are a valid passport, recent photo, travel details and often proof of financial stability. Stu-
dents and adult males also must fill out supplemental travel documents.
The validity period for a US visitor visa depends on your home country. The length of
time you'll be allowed to stay in the USA is determined by US officials at the port of entry.
office.
CUSTOMS
For a complete, up-to-date list of customs regulations, visit the website of
US Customs &
Border Protection
(
www.cbp.gov
)
. Each visitor is allowed to bring into the US duty-free 1L
