The Government Launches Mobile App to Expedite Visa Procedures
The government has introduced a new mobile app in 40 countries and 24 languages that aims to streamline the visa application process for citizens traveling to the United States under B1/B2 visas for tourism or business purposes.
New Digital Tool for Travelers
The Office of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced the launch of a digital tool that allows eligible travelers to easily and quickly submit their ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) applications from their smartphones, mobile devices, or tablets. This tool is specifically designed for travelers who may enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
The VWP, established by Congress in 1986, permits citizens of 41 countries to enter the United States without a visa for up to 90 days, provided they hold a valid passport.
Entry Process and Security Measures
Before embarking on a trip to the United States, travelers must obtain a valid authorization through ESTA. Upon arrival at a port of entry, individuals are required to go through security filters, and their entry is registered in the US-VISIT program of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Understanding the ESTA Program
The ESTA program, administered by CBP, was established under the VWP to enhance the security of travel to the United States. It is an automated system that assesses the eligibility of visitors and identifies any potential security or law enforcement risks associated with their travel.
Introducing the ESTA Mobile App
The new ESTA mobile app is part of CBP’s mobile app strategy and represents a significant technological advancement. It allows travelers to apply for authorization, scan their passports, confirm their identity through a live selfie video, provide personal and travel details, answer eligibility questions, review and submit their applications, make changes or updates, receive notifications, and store preferences and profile details within the app.
Benefits of the New ESTA Application
- Start an ESTA application
- Scan an image of your passport
- Have your passport scanned and confirmed
- Upload a live selfie video to confirm your identity
- Add personal and travel details to your app
- Answer eligibility questions
- Review and submit your application
- Make changes or updates to your application or profile
- Receive notifications and app status updates
- Save time by storing your preferences and profile details within the app
Other application details:
- Available in 24 different languages
- Designed for travelers from the 40 countries eligible for the VWP
- Accessible 24/7
- Established in 2008 as a highly effective security and verification tool
Understanding the Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from 41 countries to enter the United States without a visa for a maximum stay of 90 days. The participating countries include Germany, Australia, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom, among others.
Considerations for VWP Travelers
Travelers entering under the VWP should be aware that they waive the right of reconsideration if denied entry by an immigration officer, unless they are seeking asylum. Additionally, they cannot contest an expulsion. If a traveler requires a different type of visa to stay in the United States, they must leave the country and apply for a non-immigrant entry visa at a US consulate in their home country.
Important Reminder for VWP Travelers
It is crucial for VWP travelers to understand that any previous violations of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA), such as illegal entry or undocumented stay, may affect their eligibility to travel under the program. It is advisable to seek legal advice if there are concerns regarding eligibility or criminal records.
Learn more about coming to the US with a humanitarian sponsor.
Li>Confirm your identity through a live selfie video
This new mobile app aims to make the visa application process easier and more efficient for travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It allows them to complete and submit their ESTA applications from their mobile devices, providing a convenient and streamlined experience. The app provides a range of functionalities, including the ability to scan passports, confirm identity through a live selfie video, and receive notifications. Overall, the app is part of the government’s efforts to embrace digital technology and enhance the visa application process for travelers worldwide.
Can travelers make changes or updates to their ESTA applications through the government’s new mobile app
No, travelers cannot make changes or updates to their ESTA applications through the government’s new mobile app. Changes or updates to ESTA applications must be made through the official ESTA website.
How does the live selfie video feature in the new mobile app help travelers confirm their identity for the Visa Waiver Program?
The live selfie video feature in the new mobile app helps travelers confirm their identity for the Visa Waiver Program by allowing them to submit a real-time video of themselves. This video can be compared to the traveler’s passport or other identification documents to ensure that they are the same person. This additional layer of verification helps to prevent identity theft and fraud, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the traveler’s identity for the Visa Waiver Program. The live selfie video feature in the new mobile app helps travelers confirm their identity for the Visa Waiver Program by allowing them to submit a real-time video of themselves. This video can be compared to the traveler’s passport or other identification documents to ensure that they are the same person. This additional layer of verification helps to prevent identity theft and fraud, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the traveler’s identity for the Visa Waiver Program.
1 comment
This is a game-changer! The new mobile app is a breath of fresh air for travelers to the US, making the visa application process a breeze. Finally, a streamlined solution that saves time and reduces stress.