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[KGY Immigration Information] 🇺🇸 USA Visa Application

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*The following visa information is based on the purpose of visiting India to participate in a Korea GapYear project.

United States Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

✅ What is ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It assesses whether a trip poses any law enforcement or security risk.

✅ Who Needs to Apply for ESTA?

This applies to travelers who:

Are citizens or nationals of a Visa Waiver Program country.
Do not already hold a valid U.S. visa.
Plan to visit the U.S. for 90 days or fewer.
Are traveling for business, tourism, or transit purposes.
Need to apply for or renew a group or individual travel authorization.

✅ Who Is Exempt from ESTA?

You do not need an ESTA if you are:

A citizen of Canada.
A U.S. permanent resident.
A dual citizen of the U.S. and a Visa Waiver Program country.
A holder of a valid U.S. visa.

✅ When Should You Apply for ESTA?

ESTA approval can take up to 72 hours. Travelers are advised to apply at least 3 days before departure. However, applying earlier is strongly recommended to avoid delays.

✅ How to Apply for ESTA

1.Visit the ESTA official website.

2.Change the language to your preference using the top-right dropdown menu.

3.Select "Apply" and choose between an individual or group application.

4.Agree to the Waiver of Rights and Terms of Use.

5.Upload a copy of your passport or enter passport details manually.

Provide personal information (ensure all responses are in English).
Enter contact details in the U.S., including your intended address during your stay.
Answer eligibility questions carefully. Any inaccurate responses can lead to denial or entry issues.

6. Review your application thoroughly and proceed to payment.

Application fee: $21 USD per person.
Payment methods: PayPal, debit, or credit card.

7. Check your application status after submission. If approved, download and print the confirmation.

✅ Additional Notes

ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
It allows multiple entries, with each stay limited to 90 days.
ESTA cannot be renewed or extended. Apply for a new authorization if necessary.

✅ Visa Application Process for Other Countries

For longer stays or purposes not covered by ESTA, visitors from these countries should follow the standard visa application process. Below is a general guide to apply for a U.S. visa:

General Visa Application Steps

Determine Visa Type: Visit the U.S. Visa website to find the appropriate visa category.
Complete DS-160 Form: Fill out the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160).
Pay Application Fee: Fees vary depending on the visa type.
Schedule an Interview: Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Prepare Required Documents: Bring a valid passport, confirmation of DS-160, fee receipt, and any supporting documents specific to your visa type.
Attend the Interview: Answer questions about your purpose of visit, financial stability, and ties to your home country.

⚠️

This information was compiled based on official sources as of January 2024. Visa regulations are subject to change, so please verify the latest details before departure.

✈️ Check out KGY programs that operating in the US

If you have any questions please feel free too reach out to us at program@koreagapyear.com! 👍🏻

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