|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Whether you are traveling with friends, looking for your next family vacation, or planning a romantic getaway with your special someone, Orlando has something for everyone.
As the Theme Park Capital of the World, it’s a destination packed with endless entertainment. A trip to Orlando promises bags of fun, exceptional dining, world-class shopping, and unique experiences. It’s no wonder that people travel from all over the planet to experience this wonderful destination.
If you are coming from outside the country, it’s important to get clued up on what are the requirements to enter the USA. Depending on your nationality, you will most likely need to get an ESTA waiver or a B1/B2 visa. If you would like to know the ins and outs of the process of obtaining the ESTA, head to Byevisas’s page. In the meantime, here we will give you an overview of the different types of US visas and how you can apply for one.
Find out what you need before you jump on a plane and fly to Orlando!
All About the US ESTA Visa Waiver
What Is It?
ESTA stands for ‘Electronic System for Travel Authorization’, and this waiver was introduced in 2009. It’s been warmly welcomed by citizens of eligible countries, as it means that they don’t need to go to a US embassy in person in order to get a visa.
The US ESTA is valid for 2 years and it allows multiple entries. So once you have it, you can make the most of it and come back whenever a new attraction at Universal Studios comes out, or for a relaxing spa weekend with your other half. Bear in mind that each stay can be up to 90 days, so if you wish to stay longer you will need to apply for a visa instead.
Fortunately, the whole application process is quick and easy and can be done anywhere with an internet connection. So this has transformed traveling to the US for people from many nations. It also means that you can book a last-minute trip whenever you feel like being a kid again and getting lost in Walt Disney World.
Who Needs an ESTA Waiver?
Here are the lucky nationalities that are eligible for an ESTA:
Andorran
Australian
Austrian
Belgian
British
Bruneian
Chilean
Czech
Danish
Dutch
Estonian
Finnish
French
German
Greek
Hungarian
Icelandic
Irish
Italian
Japanese
Latvian
Liechtensteiner
Lithuanian
Luxembourgish
Maltese
Monaco
New Zealander
Norwegian
Polish
Portuguese
San Marino
Singaporean
Slovakian
Slovenian
South Korean
Spanish
Swedish
Swiss
Taiwanese
How to Get an ESTA
The application process could not be easier. Fill out the form online with your personal and passport details, answer a few security questions, then pay the fee.
It only takes a few minutes to apply, and you will generally receive the waiver in your email inbox within 72 hours. What more could you ask for? Oh yes, for it to be a great value! Well, it is, as the ESTA currently costs just $14.
Key Information About the B1/B2 Visas
What Are They?
The B1/B2 visas are for visitors traveling to the USA from abroad who are not eligible for an ESTA. The difference between the two is the purpose of your visit. If you are traveling for business you will need to get a B1. On the other hand, the B2 is valid for tourism.
So if you are coming to Orlando for a business meeting, to buy goods or negotiate a contract, then you will want to apply for a B1.
Alternatively, if you are coming to see the sights, have fun at the amusement parks or soak up the sun, you will need to apply for a B2. You will also need a B2 if you are coming for medical treatment or visiting relatives.
Both visas are generally valid for 10 years and multiple entries, but this can vary depending on your nationality. In any case, the length of each stay is decided by US customs, and it can be up to a maximum of 180 days.
It’s also possible to acquire a combined B1/B2 visa if you’re visiting for both purposes.
Who Needs a B1 or B2 Visa?
All nationalities that are not eligible for an ESTA. Have a look at the list in the previous section, and if you don’t have a passport from one of those countries then you will probably need a B1 or B2 visa. To be sure, you can contact the nearest US embassy in your country and ask which requirements apply to you.
How to Get a B1/B2 Visa
You can apply online by filling out the form. It’s a longer process compared to the ESTA and you will need to provide more information. It generally takes around 90 minutes, so make sure you have that time set aside when you start.
To complete the form you will also need your passport, a digital photo of yourself, and any documents related to your trips, such as hotel and flight bookings. The photo needs to be a passport-style photo with a white background.
Once you have submitted the application form, you will be sent an email confirmation with a barcode. Make sure you print this and then schedule an interview at the US embassy.
During the interview, you will be asked questions about your travel plans in Orlando and information on any other recent trip you have been on. Bring any supporting documents with you, in case you are asked to show them. This includes a copy of the application confirmation, any hotel and flight bookings, plus proof of funds to cover the cost of your trip.
Both B1 and B2 visas currently cost $160.
Please keep in mind that the ESTA and B1/B2 visas are exclusively for those visiting the US for tourism or business. If you are coming to study, work or live in the country then you will need a different type of visa.
Conclusion
To sum up then, are you ready to fly to Orlando and have the time of your life? Apply for your B1/B2 visa or ESTA waiver and start planning your trip here.
Don’t miss out on all the thrilling theme parks and water parks, indulge in some seriously delicious food, and get lost in the city’s cultural sites and museums. If you have some time to spare, why not spend a day out in nature? Spot wildlife on Crystal River or take some time out in one of the many parks and reserves.
Orlando is a destination that ticks all the boxes and has so much to offer. You will discover new surprises each time you come! Book your Orlando hotel now.
