Traveling to the United States as a Sammarinese citizen offers an incredible opportunity to explore the vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes that make up this unique country. Whether you’re planning to visit the bustling streets of New York City, the sunny beaches of California, or the historic sites of the nation’s capital, your journey begins with obtaining the appropriate travel authorization. For many Sammarinese, this will likely be the ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). However, the application process can be complex, and mistakes can happen. Below we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes made by Sammarinese citizens when applying for a US visa or ESTA and how to avoid them.
Understanding the ESTA Application Process
Before diving into the common errors, it’s essential to understand the steps required to successfully apply for an ESTA:
- 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 including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay & Credit Card.
- Get your ESTA emailed to you within 72 hours. We’ll email you your approved travel authorization and that’s it, you’re ready to go!
Should you need your ESTA urgently, we provide two expedited processing options that you can select at checkout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the ESTA Application
1. Providing Incorrect Passport Information
One of the most frequent errors is entering incorrect passport data. As a Sammarinese citizen, ensure that your passport number, issuance date, and expiration date are entered exactly as they appear on your passport. Even a small typo can lead to a denial of your ESTA.
2. Misunderstanding the VWP Requirements
Sammarinese citizens must ensure they meet all VWP requirements. Failing to understand conditions such as the 90-day maximum stay or the purpose of the visit can result in issues at the border or even a denied application.
3. Overlooking Dual Nationality
For those holding dual citizenship, it’s critical to apply with the same passport that you will travel with. If you are also a national of a country that is not part of the VWP, make sure to use your Sammarinese passport when applying for an ESTA.
4. Inaccurate or Incomplete Personal Information
Ensure that your personal details are accurate and mirror the information in your passport. This includes your full name, birth date, and country of citizenship. Also, provide a current email address to receive your ESTA without issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my ESTA be valid?
An ESTA is typically valid for two years from the issue date or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During its validity, you may enter the US multiple times, with each stay not exceeding 90 days.
Can I apply for an ESTA if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not necessarily disqualify you from receiving an ESTA, but it depends on the nature of the convictions. If you are unsure, it is best to be honest in your application to avoid more serious repercussions.
Is it possible to renew my ESTA?
No, you cannot renew an ESTA, but you can reapply for a new one if your current ESTA is about to expire or has expired. The reapplication process is the same as the initial application.
Conclusion
Traveling to the US should be an exciting venture, not marred by administrative pitfalls. By avoiding these common mistakes in your ESTA or visa application process, you as a Sammarinese traveler can ensure a smoother journey to the United States. Remember to review your application details thoroughly and apply well in advance of your travel date. Visit our application form to start your journey, and experience the wonders the United States has to offer with peace of mind.
