Embarking on a journey to the United States is an enchanting proposition for many Estonians. The allure of diverse landscapes—from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene beaches of California—alongside a rich tapestry of cultures, makes the U.S. a compelling destination for family vacations, reunions, and memorable experiences. Understanding the visa requirements and ensuring you have the correct travel authorization is key to planning a hassle-free, enjoyable trip with your loved ones.
For Estonian citizens, one of the most expedient and convenient ways to travel to the U.S. for short-term tourism or business purposes is through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows Estonians to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), avoiding the longer, more extensive process of obtaining a conventional visa. But, what if you’re traveling as a family? Let’s dive into the steps and considerations for Estonian families applying for travel authorization to the USA.
Understanding the ESTA for Estonian Families
Firstly, it’s critical to note that every family member, irrespective of age, must have their own ESTA to travel to the United States. An ESTA is ideal for family trips of up to 90 days and can be used for tourism, certain business activities, and transit. It is a seamless system designed to make your travel plans as smooth as possible.
Eligibility for the ESTA
Before initiating your family’s ESTA applications, verify that each member is eligible. Estonians are part of the VWP Countries, which means they can take advantage of the ESTA system. However, certain conditions apply, such as having a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the U.S.
Applying for Family ESTA: A Step-by-Step Guide
The ESTA application process is straightforward and can be done from the comfort of your home. Here’s how you can secure ESTAs for your entire family:
- Fill out the online application form: Visit the convenient online application form. Complete an application for each family member and double-check all the information for accuracy.
- Submit & Pay for the applications: We provide a hassle-free payment process that accepts various methods including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Credit Card. Remember that each application requires a separate payment.
- Receive your ESTA via Email: Each approved travel authorization will be directly emailed to you within 72 hours. After receiving your ESTA, your family will be ready to embark on your American adventure.
If your family’s travel plans are fast approaching, and you need your ESTA sooner, our expedited processing options will be invaluable. Simply select the appropriate add-on during checkout to expedite your application.
Benefits of Applying for an ESTA as a Family
Applying for an ESTA offers multiple advantages for Estonian families planning their U.S. trip:
- Simplicity: The application process is far less complicated than applying for a visa, with fewer requirements and a quicker response time.
- Convenience: You can apply from anywhere, at any time, as long as you have internet access. This means no travel to the embassy or scheduling interviews for the whole family.
- Duration: An ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. This means multiple short visits to the U.S. without reapplying each time.
However, if your family’s travel plans include stays beyond 90 days or purposes other than those permitted under the VWP, you will need to apply for the appropriate U.S. visa.
FAQs for Estonian Families Applying for an ESTA
Can we apply for an ESTA as a group?
Even though each family member must have an individual ESTA, group applications are not available. Therefore, parents or guardians must complete separate applications for each child.
What if one of us is denied an ESTA?
If any family member is ineligible for an ESTA, they must apply for a traditional visa. This process is more stringent and requires an appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
How long before our trip should we apply for an ESTA?
It is recommended to apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before departure. However, it’s best to apply as soon as you start planning your trip to the United States.
Conclusion
For Estonian families dreaming of the American skyline or a walk through Hollywood, obtaining an ESTA is an ideal path to making those dreams a reality. As eVisaUS, we are committed to providing you with the simplest, fastest way to secure your family’s entry into the United States. With our efficient application process, your only concern should be which U.S. landmarks to visit first. Prepare for an exciting journey filled with family memories that will last a lifetime, all by starting with your ESTA application today.
