Do I really need a visa to visit the US?

Citizens of the 41 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries do not need a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days — an ESTA is enough.

How long can I stay on an ESTA?

Up to 90 days per visit. The approval itself is valid for two years and multiple entries.

What if I want to stay longer than 90 days?

For stays over 90 days, or to study, work or immigrate, an ESTA is not enough — you need the appropriate full visa (for example F for students, H for work).

What if my ESTA is rejected?

If your ESTA is denied, visa-free entry is usually blocked and you would apply for a visitor visa (B1/B2) at a US embassy.

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여행 전 비자 Q&A · 1

Do I Need a Visa to Visit the USA? — For Most, an ESTA Is Enough

Under 90 days for tourism or business means ESTA, not a visa

FitTrip Editor · 2026.06.14

Citizens of the 41 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries visiting the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days do not need a visa — they only need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). As of June 2026 the ESTA government fee is $40.27, valid for two years and multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days each. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days or to study, work or immigrate, you need the appropriate full visa instead of an ESTA.

Short answer: if you hold a passport from one of the 41 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries and you are visiting for tourism or business for 90 days or less, you do not need a US visa — you need an ESTA Fact.

Visa vs. ESTA — which applies to you

The ESTA route covers short tourism and business trips of up to 90 days. A full visa is required if you fall outside that: stays longer than 90 days, or travel to study, work or immigrate Fact.

The ESTA in one paragraph

The government fee is $40.27, and once approved an ESTA is valid for two years and multiple entries, with each stay capped at 90 days Fact. Approval is boarding eligibility, not a guarantee of entry — a CBP officer decides at the airport. US ESTA, in full ›

When and how to apply

Apply at least 72 hours before departure; most approvals arrive within minutes but can take up to 72 hours Fact. Traveling to more than one country on the same trip? See how each authorization compares. ETA vs ESTA vs ETIAS, compared ›

FAQ

Do I really need a visa to visit the US?: Citizens of the 41 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries do not need a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days — an ESTA is enough.
How long can I stay on an ESTA?: Up to 90 days per visit. The approval itself is valid for two years and multiple entries.
What if I want to stay longer than 90 days?: For stays over 90 days, or to study, work or immigrate, an ESTA is not enough — you need the appropriate full visa (for example F for students, H for work).
What if my ESTA is rejected?: If your ESTA is denied, visa-free entry is usually blocked and you would apply for a visitor visa (B1/B2) at a US embassy.

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