How to Apply for a US Visa: Complete Guide for ESTA-Eligible and Non-Eligible Citizens (Step-by-Step)
Hi! Dreaming of a trip to the USA — New York, California beaches, or a road trip through the Rockies?
Whether you’re from an ESTA-eligible country (like Italy, Germany, or the UK) or not (like Brazil, India, or China), here’s exactly how to apply — with official links and zero confusion.
Quick Answer
ESTA countries: Apply online, pay $21, approval within ~72h — valid 2 years.
Non-ESTA: Choose B1/B2, submit DS-160, pay $185, book embassy interview — processing 1–3 months.
Start now: passport, photo, finances proof.
Full Guide: US Visa Application (Step-by-Step for Everyone)
This guide covers both paths: ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) and the full B1/B2 visa process. All links point to official US government pages.
1. Check Your Eligibility: ESTA or Full Visa?
First, confirm if your country is in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
➜ Official list:
travel.state.gov – Visa Waiver Program.
| ESTA-Eligible (VWP) | Non-Eligible (Need Visa) |
|---|---|
| Most EU countries, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, etc. (~40+) | Brazil, India, China, Russia, Mexico, Argentina, Turkey, most of Africa/Asia |
| Pros: Faster, cheaper, no interview | Pros: Possible longer stays (up to 6 months) |
| Cons: 90 days max, no work/study | Cons: Interview required, higher denial risk |
Note: Even if your country is in VWP, you still need a regular visa for work or study.
2. For ESTA-Eligible Citizens: Apply for ESTA
ESTA is not a visa — it’s an online travel authorization for short visits (up to 90 days). Valid 2 years or until your passport expires.
Step-by-Step ESTA Application
- Prepare: passport (valid 6+ months), email, bank card.
- Apply here (official site): esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Complete the form: personal data, travel details, eligibility questions.
- Pay: $21 (non-refundable).
- Result: approval usually within 72 hours (often instant). Save/print the PDF.
Timeline: 10–30 min to apply • Cost: $21
Official FAQ: CBP – ESTA information
Pro tip: Apply at least 72 hours before your flight. Use a desktop and an up-to-date browser.
3. For Non-ESTA Citizens: Apply for a US Visa (B1/B2)
Most travelers need the B1 (business), B2 (tourism), or combined B1/B2 visa.
Step-by-Step Visa Application
- Choose visa type (overview and requirements): travel.state.gov – Visitor Visas (B1/B2)
- Fill DS-160 online:
ceac.state.gov/genniv
Photo rules: official photo requirements - Pay the MRV fee ($185) and keep the receipt (country-specific instructions are on your local US Embassy site).
- Book your interview via your country’s portal: ustraveldocs.com (select country → create profile → schedule).
- Attend interview: take passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, proof of funds, itinerary, employment letter, etc.
Wait times by location: current visa appointment & processing times.
Timeline: 1–3 months • Cost: $185 + travel to embassy
4. Special Cases: Other Visa Types
| Visa | For | Key Steps |
|---|---|---|
| F-1 | Students | I-20 from school → DS-160 → interview (guide) |
| H-1B | Skilled work | Employer petition → lottery → interview (USCIS) |
| K-1 | Fiancé(e) | US partner petitions → interview (K-1 info) |
| J-1 | Exchange | Sponsor → DS-2019 → interview (j1visa.state.gov) |
5. After Approval: Enter the US
- Check your I-94 arrival record after entry: i94.cbp.dhs.gov
- CBP inspection at the airport: CBP – International Visitors
- Health guidance for travelers: CDC Traveler’s Health
Tip: Carry a return ticket and proof of funds; ESTA stays are 90 days max.
6. Denials & Appeals
| Reason | How to Fix |
|---|---|
| Insufficient ties | Provide job, property, family evidence |
| Previous overstay | Wait eligibility period or seek legal advice |
| Criminal record | Ask about waivers (e.g., I-601) with an attorney |
| Inconsistent answers | Be honest and consistent across forms & interview |
7. Costs Breakdown
| Item | ESTA | Full Visa (B1/B2) |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $21 | $185 |
| Photo/prints | $5–$10 | $10–$20 |
| Travel to embassy | — | $50–$200 |
| Total | ~$30 | ~$250+ |
Final Tips for Success
- Apply early (ideally 3 months before travel)
- Use only official sites linked above (avoid “visa agents”)
- Keep copies/screenshots of all confirmations
- Track status: ESTA via email; visa via CEAC status tracker
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for ESTA?
Citizens of Visa Waiver countries. Check the official list: VWP countries.
Can I work on ESTA or B2?
No. For work you need an appropriate work visa (e.g., H-1B). See USCIS – Working in the US.
How long can I stay on ESTA?
90 days max per entry. No extensions.
What if my visa is denied?
You’ll usually receive a 214(b) note. Reapply later with stronger evidence, or consult an attorney. Info: Visa denials.
Do I need a visa for airport transit?
Often ESTA is enough for air transit; check your airline and visa categories.
Where do I see my I-94 after arrival?
Retrieve it here: i94.cbp.dhs.gov.
