New York City, the city that never sleeps, is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the world. With its vibrant culture, iconic monuments and countless attractions, it attracts millions of visitors every year. However, when planning a trip to the United States, it is essential to be prepared with the correct documentation to avoid inconveniences and ensure a hassle-free travel experience. This article will look at the three main documents required to travel to America: the electronic passport, the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), and health insurance.
Electronic Passport
The electronic passport is the first essential document to have when planning a trip to the United States. This type of passport contains a microchip that stores the holder's biographical data, allowing easier and more secure access through border controls.
It is important to ensure that you have a valid passport for the duration of your trip to the United States. It must be legible and in good condition. It is advisable to check the validity of your passport in advance of departure so as to have sufficient time to renew it if necessary.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that to enter the United States with an electronic passport you must meet some specifications. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of your country of origin on the official website of the US Department of State.
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
European Union citizens in possession of a passport do not need a visa but can fill out the ESTA, a document that allows entry into the United States for tourist stays of up to 90 days. ESTA is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of travelers before they board flights to or transit the United States.
To obtain the ESTA, travelers must complete an online application, providing personal and travel information. The cost is approximately 21,00$. It is advisable to apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before departure to ensure sufficient time for the approval process. ESTA approval does not automatically guarantee admission to the United States: it is always at the discretion of US border authorities to allow entry. The cost is 21,00$.
It is important to note that the ESTA is valid for a maximum of two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Therefore, if you plan future travel to the United States, it is advisable to renew your ESTA before it expires.
Let's now talk about practical information on how to fill out the ESTA.
First of all, log in to US government website and make sure you have your passport handy. On the site, you can change the language to Italian to facilitate filling out the form and starting a new request.
Once you accept the disclaimer terms, you will need to upload a copy of your passport in .jpg format. Check that the information is correct and add it to your request. Some fields on the form will be filled in automatically, but you will need to fill in any information that is missing or not filled in automatically. Also add your email address to receive a verification code and application number, which will allow you to check the status of your application and ESTA approval.
Next you will need to fill in the following information:
- Personal informations: Please enter your full residential address, a contact telephone number, your parents' last name and first name, as well as your employer's name and address, if applicable.
- Travel Information: Indicate whether the United States is your final destination or whether you are only in transit. If they are your final destination, enter the name and address of the first accommodation where you will stop on your trip. Also provide the name, email address, and telephone number of an emergency contact outside the United States.
- Eligibility Questions: Carefully answer questions about any medical conditions, prior incarcerations, seeking employment in the US, prior visa denials, and travel to certain countries.
- Verification and Payment: Carefully recheck all the information entered and proceed with payment. The cost of the ESTA is 21,00$, to be paid by credit card (MasterCard, VISA, American Express) or via PayPal.
Once payment is complete, you will receive an email notification regarding the status of your request. Connect to the US government website again and use the application number to verify ESTA approval and download the document in .pdf format. Approval may take a few days.
You can print the approved authorization, but this is not necessary as the ESTA is digitally associated with your passport.
Health insurance
Finally, another crucial document to consider when traveling to the United States is adequate health insurance. The healthcare system in the United States is private and can be expensive for non-residents if they need medical or hospital care. Therefore, although not mandatory, it is strongly advisable to obtain health insurance that provides adequate coverage for medical expenses, medical evacuations, and other medical emergencies during your stay in the United States.
Before purchasing health insurance, it is important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the policy to ensure that it meets your specific needs and covers expected eventualities while traveling to the United States.
In conclusion, when planning a trip to the United States, making sure you have the correct documents is essential to avoid problems during your trip and fully enjoy the experience. A valid e-passport, ESTA and adequate health insurance are essential elements to consider before departure. Always check the site Traveling Safely before leaving, to always be aware of changes regarding entry requirements to the United States. Making sure you are informed about the requirements and have all the necessary documents will make your trip to the United States smoother and more enjoyable.
Last Updated on 1 September 2024
