Running a small business can be full of difficult processes but if you are looking to expand your market to the US, it is worthwhile knowing that the ESTA USA application makes it easier for business people to make multiple trips to the US.
Previously, a visa USA application was required which could take much longer to process but the system that was introduced in 2010 for ESTA USA can go through within minutes sometimes, with a set of questions that you can easily complete via the online form.
ESTA is part of the Visa Waiver Program that basically enables travellers from a set list of countries to apply for travel authorization to the US for trips of up to 90 days. The ESTA covers both business and leisure/tourism travel purposes, so even if you have applied for the ESTA for business, you are able to use it again for that trip to NYC you have always dreamed about!
The ESTA is valid for two years once it has been approved and within that period, you can make multiple trips, for both business and leisure, providing that each trip is for no longer than 90 days. It is recommended that you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before you travel, just in case there are any problems with your application.
Visa application guide
The form is relatively easy and quick to complete with just a few sections of information that you will be required to provide. You will be asked to give your personal details such as name, address, DOB, parents details and your passport information.
You will also be required to answer a set of questions that will ascertain whether your application will be approved. The questions include information regarding places that you have travelled to and also details around any criminal convictions that you may have.
If you are struggling with any of the questions or have some queries regarding the application process then you can find a set of useful FAQs on the ESTA website. The FAQs listed on the website should be able to answer any questions that you may have and it is worth reading them before you submit your application so that you can avoid any unnecessary delays.
All information on the online form that is marked with an asterisk must be completed and if these are not completed then you will not be able to submit the form. Once you have completed all of the information required, it is important that you check through all of the details, make sure that it is all correct or it may be declined if the wrong information is provided. Finally, you just need to process your payment and wait for confirmation of whether your ESTA has been approved. You will usually hear back within a few hours, unless there are some complications with the application.
