Traveling to the United States is a dream for many, and Greek citizens are fortunate enough to be part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which makes visiting the U.S. easier. This article will guide you through the steps and requirements that Greek citizens must follow when planning a trip to the United States. Whether you’re going for tourism, business, or transit, this guide will provide all the necessary information to help you travel with ease.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
Greek citizens are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows them to travel to the United States for specific purposes without needing a traditional visa. Under the VWP, Greek travelers can visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without applying for a visa.
The primary benefit of the VWP is that it simplifies travel, making it faster and more convenient for Greek citizens to visit the U.S. However, there are specific rules and conditions you must follow. Below is a detailed explanation of how the VWP works for Greek citizens.
Limitations of the VWP
Greek citizens can stay in the United States for up to 90 days per visit under the Visa Waiver Program. This applies to travel for tourism, business, or transit. It’s important to remember that the 90-day stay is cumulative, meaning if you enter multiple times, the total number of days spent in the U.S. should not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
If you plan to stay for longer than 90 days or intend to work or study in the U.S., you will need to apply for a visa, as the VWP does not cover these purposes.
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
Although Greek citizens can travel to the U.S. under the VWP, they are still required to obtain ESTA approval before boarding a flight. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of travelers to visit the U.S. under the VWP.
How to Apply for ESTA
Applying for an ESTA is a simple and quick online process. You can apply through the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Visit the official ESTA website: Go to the official ESTA website, which is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Complete the application: You’ll need to provide personal details, travel information, and answer questions related to your health, criminal background, and travel history.
Pay the fee: The cost for an ESTA application is $21, which must be paid online at the time of submission. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Receive approval: In most cases, ESTA approval is granted within minutes, though it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your departure. You will receive an email notification about the status of your application.
Print the ESTA approval: While the ESTA approval is electronically linked to your passport, it’s still a good idea to print out the confirmation for your records.
ESTA Validity
Once approved, your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that you can travel to the U.S. multiple times within that two-year period without needing to apply for a new ESTA. However, each visit must comply with the 90-day limit.
Updating ESTA Information
If any details in your ESTA application change (e.g., a change in your travel itinerary, passport number, or other personal details), you may need to update your ESTA. This can be done through the same website where you originally applied.
Eligibility Criteria for the Visa Waiver Program
Although Greek citizens are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met. These criteria ensure that you are permitted to use the VWP for your visit to the U.S.
Conditions for Using the VWP
Valid Greek Biometric Passport: To travel under the Visa Waiver Program, you must have a valid Greek biometric passport. These passports contain a microchip and are machine-readable, allowing for faster processing at U.S. entry points.
Purpose of Visit: You must be traveling for one of the approved purposes, such as:
Tourism: Visiting friends and family, sightseeing, attending cultural events, etc.
Business: Attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.
Transit: Traveling through the U.S. to another country.
Travel History: You must not have visited certain countries that the U.S. has restricted under the VWP. For example, travelers who have visited countries such as Iraq, Syria, Iran, or Sudan after March 2011 may be ineligible for the VWP. If you have traveled to these countries, you may need to apply for a regular visa.
Return or Onward Travel: When entering the U.S. under the VWP, you must be able to demonstrate that you plan to leave the country within the 90-day limit. This could be shown through a return flight ticket or proof of onward travel.
Documentation Needed for Entry
When traveling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, Greek citizens must carry specific documents to be allowed entry. Here’s a list of the essential documentation:
Valid Passport: Ensure your Greek biometric passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S. While the U.S. accepts passports with a shorter validity for Greek citizens, having a six-month validity buffer is always a good practice.
Approved ESTA: You must have an approved ESTA before boarding your flight to the U.S. Make sure to carry a printout of your ESTA approval, even though it is electronically linked to your passport.
Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Immigration officers may request evidence that you have booked a flight to leave the U.S. within 90 days. This could be a return ticket or a flight to another country.
Evidence of Sufficient Funds: Although this is not always requested, it’s advisable to have proof that you have enough funds to cover your stay in the U.S. This could include bank statements or credit card statements.
Additional Considerations
While the Visa Waiver Program makes traveling to the U.S. simpler, there are situations where Greek citizens may still need a visa.
When Is a Visa Required?
Longer Stay: If you plan to stay in the U.S. for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa. The VWP only allows for stays of up to 90 days, so if you need to stay longer, a B-2 Tourist Visa or B-1 Business Visa will be necessary.
Working, Studying, or Immigrating: The VWP does not cover working, studying, or immigrating to the U.S. If you plan to engage in any of these activities, you must apply for the appropriate visa, such as an F-1 Student Visa, H-1B Work Visa, or Green Card.
Traveling for Restricted Purposes: If your purpose for traveling doesn’t fall under tourism, business, or transit, you may need to apply for a visa. For example, if you are visiting for medical treatment, you would need to apply for a B-2 Visa.
How to Apply for a U.S. Visa
If a visa is required, you will need to apply through the U.S. Embassy in Athens. The application process involves filling out the DS-160 form, scheduling an appointment for an interview, and submitting documents such as your passport, visa application fee, and supporting documents (e.g., financial records, travel itinerary).
Travel Tips for Greek Citizens Visiting the U.S.
When planning your trip to the U.S., here are some tips to help ensure smooth travel:
Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure from the U.S. This will help avoid any last-minute issues with entry.
Apply for ESTA Early: While ESTA applications are usually approved quickly, it’s always a good idea to apply at least 72 hours before your flight. This gives you time to address any issues or delays in the application process.
Know U.S. Customs Regulations: Familiarize yourself with U.S. customs regulations regarding prohibited items, such as certain foods or plants, to avoid any complications at the border.
Have Backup Documentation: Carry all necessary documents, such as proof of your return flight and financial means, in case immigration officers request additional verification.
Conclusion
Greek citizens enjoy the advantage of traveling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, which allows for a seamless and efficient visit for up to 90 days. By obtaining an ESTA and ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, your trip to the U.S. can be smooth and hassle-free. However, if your travel plans involve longer stays or different purposes like working or studying, a visa will be necessary. Always ensure your passport is valid, and stay informed on the latest travel requirements through official resources such as the U.S. Embassy in Greece or the ESTA website. Safe travels!
