For Hungarian citizens dreaming of the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural melting pot that define the United States, the journey begins with obtaining the correct travel authorization. The beauty of the Grand Canyon, the bustling streets of New York City, and the lush scenery of Hawaii are just a few of the wonders that await travelers. To experience these and countless other American highlights, Hungarian passport holders must secure either a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding a plane to the U.S. Fortunately, Hungary is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which simplifies travel to the United States for its citizens.
Whether it’s exploring Silicon Valley’s tech hub, indulging in the culinary scenes of New Orleans, or strolling through the historic streets of Boston, you’ll need to ensure your travel documents are in order. Here is a comprehensive look at the steps Hungarian citizens should follow to apply for travel authorization, and what the ESTA entails.
Understanding the ESTA for Hungarian Citizens
The ESTA is not a visa, but rather a travel authorization for citizens of VWP countries VWP. It’s essential for those wishing to enter the United States for tourism, business, or while in transit. Hungarian citizens can benefit from the ESTA’s streamlined application process which can be completed comfortably from any location with internet access.
The approval of an ESTA allows Hungarian travelers to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days per visit without the need for a traditional visa. This is ideal for shorter visits, and the ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you can make multiple trips to the United States without needing to reapply for each visit, provided each stay does not exceed the 90-day limit.
How to Apply for the ESTA
To begin your application, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Fill out our easy-to-use online application form. The application takes about 10 minutes. Make sure to have your passport handy.
- Submit & Pay for your application. We accept all payment types. PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay & Credit Card.
- Get your ESTA emailed to you within 72 hrs. We’ll email you your approved travel authorization and that’s it, you’re ready to go!
If you find that you need your ESTA more quickly, we also offer expedited processing options that you can select at checkout for an additional fee.
ESTA Requirements for Hungarian Citizens
Before applying for an ESTA, ensure that you meet the following requirements:
- You hold a Hungarian passport that is an electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information.
- Your trip to the U.S. is for 90 days or less.
- Travel purposes include tourism, certain types of business visits, or transit.
- You currently do not hold a visitor’s visa.
Important Considerations Before Applying
When applying for the ESTA, Hungarian citizens should be aware of certain conditions that might affect their eligibility:
- Ensure that you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight, but ideally as soon as you start planning your trip to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Having an approved ESTA does not guarantee admission into the United States; final determination will be made by a Customs and Border Protection officer at the point of entry.
- If you have a criminal record or have been previously denied entry or a visa to the U.S., you may need to apply for a visa instead of an ESTA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Hungarian Citizens Stay in the U.S. With an ESTA?
Hungarian citizens can stay in the United States for up to 90 days on an ESTA. It is also important to note that the ESTA is valid for two years or up until the passport expiration date and allows for multiple entries into the U.S. during that period.
Can Hungarian Citizens Work in the U.S. With an ESTA?
The ESTA does not permit holders to engage in any form of employment in the United States. It is specifically for tourism, business meetings, conferences, or transiting purposes.
Does the ESTA Guarantee Entry Into the United States?
An approved ESTA is not a guarantee of entry. The final admission decision lies with the Customs and Border Protection officers at the point of entry.
What Should Hungarian Citizens Do if Their ESTA Application is Denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you’ll need to apply for a visitor visa through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An application denial does not prevent you from traveling to the United States, but you will need to go through a more lengthy visa application process.
In conclusion, with the beauty and opportunity that awaits in the United States, ensuring you have the right travel authorization as a Hungarian citizen is paramount. By following the outlined steps and being informed about the ESTA requirements and conditions, you can look forward to an exciting and seamless travel experience to the U.S. Remember that eVisaUS is here to assist you every step of the way with your travel needs and questions regarding the ESTA.
