Question by Taz: A Question about the US Visa Waiver Program for an Australian?
I am a 28 year old Indian-Born Australian man. I am planning to visit United States for about 16 days for a short vacation which includes visiting friends and relatives. So I’ll be using the VISA WAIVER PROGRAM which sounds like the best option. I also have an approved ESTA.
My question is ….
1). What documents do I need to carry apart from my Aussie Passport and a copy of return ticket?…And Is it OK if I take my Credit and Debit cards rather than any cash?
2). I have heard that a lot of people using the Visa Waiver Program are harassed and given a hard time by the Customs & Border officials without any valid reason….Is it true?. …I saw the “The Australian” story of Daniel Meadows on ABC. He seems to be a such a decent guy. I’ve heard that he was detained and returned on the same flight back without any valid reason.
….Since I don’t want something like that should happen with me. Should I apply for a B1 / B2 tourist visa (which should create less hassles at the POE) at the US consulate rather than using the Visa Waiver Program?………or is it OK to go there on Visa Waiver?…..Please advise.
Best answer:
Answer by MrS
Millions of people travel under the VWP every year without any problems . You would most likely be denied a B2 visa since you´re only planning on staying for 16 days, they would tell you to travel under the VWP.
Bring your return ticket, an address for a hotel or similar where you are planning to stay the first night and of course your passport.
You should also be prepared to answer simple questions about where you are planning to travel while there.
Credit cards are ok, you dont need your entire holiday budget in cash.
I think you are wrong in assuming that a B2 visa should create less hassle. As long as you have your documents in order and are just planning a short vacation you should have no problems whatsoever.
Give your answer to this question below!
Sorry, never heard of Daniel Meadows, but as the previous poster said, millions of people enter using the VWP without any problem. Don’t know what the problem was with this Meadows fellow. The questions you will be asked will be designed to see if you plan to overstay. You’ll be asked the purpose of your visit and you might be asked for details about whom you’ll be visiting and how you know them and what they are doing in the US, etc. If you are worried about it, bring some proof that you have strong ties to Australia.
You might want to bring about $20 in cash, but it really isn’t necessary. Just check with your bank ahead of time. Let them know that you are travelling so they don’t block your accounts due to the unusual activity. Most Amerians these days don’t carry cash, but we do have a tipping tradition, unfortunately, and it’s sometimes easier to have some small cash for that purpose.
I hope you have an enjoyable, trouble-free trip.
Actually, the majority of visitors coming to the US come on Visa Waiver. Most folks don’t go carrying a lot of cash these days. No cash at all would be a bit strange though. You’ll want to be able to discuss just what you have in mind on your vacation. Just saying walk about isn’t going to be all that helpful. by the way, people with visas get turned around, too. if the interviewing officer thinks you’re not just here to see Disney World, it won”t matter if you’re on Visa Waiver or have a visa.
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html