Security measures to the USA

In order to reinforce their internal security, the American authorities have put in place, since the last few months, new measures that you must take into account when preparing your trip to the United States.

Thus, citizens of countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program must meet certain requirements in order to be allowed to enter the United States. Our experts explain everything in detail!

 

What is ESTA?

The ESTA is a pre-authorization that allows eligible individuals to travel to the United States via a simpler and less expensive process than that required to establish a visa.

Valid for two years, the document allows its holders to make several stays during this period.

However, travelers must comply with certain security measures imposed by the United States, such as:

• travel with a company recognized by the USA;
• stay a maximum of 90 consecutive days in the territory.

 

General safety measures

A valid biometric or electronic passport is required for travel to the United States for nationals of the Visa Waiver Program.

In order to meet this security measure, travelers who do not have this identity document should contact the U.S. Embassy to apply for a visa.

 

Targeted security measures

Nationals of Visa Waiver Program member countries who have spent the last few years in one of the countries considered to be the cradle of terrorism (Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan…) cannot obtain an ESTA.

They must therefore face the new security measures imposed and turn to another form of residence authorization: the visa.

However, some exceptions are granted but in very specific cases.

They apply to :

• full-time state employees on official business;
• agents working for a regional or international organization;
• personnel working in the humanitarian or journalistic fields.