ESTA or visa USA for Taiwan citizens
If you're a Taiwanese citizen planning to travel to the USA, it's essential to understand the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application process.
Fast: Simplified, efficient process.
Security: information is protected.
Reliability: 98% approval rate.
Assistance: 24/7 customer support.
This page guides you through the steps required to obtain this authorization, which enables you to enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program. The aim is to provide you with clear information on the application procedure, the documents required, processing times and the period of validity of the ESTA. You'll also discover the main reasons why an application might be refused, and the alternatives available in the event of a refusal. By following the steps described, you'll be better prepared to organize your trip without unforeseen administrative hurdles. This page aims to simplify the process, by answering all your questions, from the cost of the ESTA to details about its validity and use for multiple entries into the USA.
Do Taiwanese citizens need a visa to USA?
- Visa requirement: No, Taiwanese citizens do not need a visa for a stay of less than 90 days in the United States. They can apply for ESTA authorization under the Visa Waiver Program.
- e-visa available: Taiwanese must obtain ESTA authorization online before departure, which replaces the visa for short tourist, business or transit stays.
- Price: The ESTA application costs 21 USD, excluding any processing fees or services.
- Processing time: ESTAs are generally approved within 72 hours, but it is recommended to apply at least three days before departure.
- Validity period: An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until passport expiry, allowing multiple entries into the USA.
Taiwanese citizens wishing to visit the United States for a stay of less than 90 days must apply for ESTA authorization before their trip. ESTA is an alternative to the traditional visa for short stays under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA application is made entirely online, and is generally quick to process. Here are the main steps and information you need to know to make your application a success.
To submit an ESTA application, Taiwanese citizens must gather several essential documents:
The cost of the ESTA for Taiwanese citizens is 21 USD. This fee breaks down as follows: USD 4 for the application processing fee and USD 17 for the authorization, if approved. A service charge may be added if you use a service provider who offers assistance services.
Payment must be made at the time the application is submitted, and is non-refundable whether or not the ESTA is accepted. It is important to note that the ESTA remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
The ESTA processing time for Taiwanese citizens is generally fast. Once the application has been submitted online, results are often available within 24 to 72 hours. However, in some cases, approval can be almost immediate, with answers provided within minutes of submission.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises due to delays or unexpected complications, it is strongly recommended that you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure for the United States. It is also advisable not to wait until the last minute, so as to be able to resolve any problems that may arise during the processing of your application.
If your ESTA is refused, you will receive a notification inviting you to apply for a traditional visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in Taiwan.
Taiwanese citizens who obtain ESTA authorization can enjoy multiple entries to the USA during a defined validity period. Here are the key facts about ESTA duration and validity for Taiwanese citizens.
With an approved ESTA authorization, Taiwanese citizens can make multiple trips to the USA without having to reapply for a new authorization. As long as the ESTA remains valid, there is no limit to the number of entries, as long as the conditions of use, such as the maximum length of stay, are respected.
An ESTA allows Taiwanese citizens to stay up to 90 days per visit in the United States, whether for tourism, business or transit. It is important to note that these 90 days include all successive visits if they take place within a short period of time, as the counter does not reset after each entry.
The ESTA visa is valid for two years, or until the expiry date of the passport, whichever comes first. It is not possible to renew an existing ESTA. When the authorization expires, Taiwanese citizens must submit a new application. In addition, if major changes occur in the information provided at the time of application (such as a change of name or passport), a new ESTA application will be required.
Although ESTA is designed to simplify entry into the United States, some applications are refused for a variety of reasons. Here are the most common reasons for refusal, and the steps to take in the event of rejection.
ESTA application refusals can result from a number of factors. Here are the most common:
If your ESTA application is refused, you will receive notification that your travel authorization has been denied. In this case, Taiwanese citizens must apply for a B1/B2 visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate. This process involves completing a visa application form (DS-160), paying the visa application fee, and attending an in-person interview.
The United States is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, including Taiwanese citizens. As a general rule, the USA is considered a safe country for travelers, but it is important to follow certain precautions as in any great nation.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises its citizens to find out about local security before traveling, and to make sure they have all the necessary travel documents, including a valid ESTA authorization and sufficient health insurance.
By following this advice and keeping abreast of local news, Taiwanese citizens can safely enjoy their stay in the United States.
Find out if your question has been answered in the list below
No, there is no visa on arrival for Taiwanese citizens traveling to the United States. All Taiwanese travelers must obtain ESTA authorization before departure. This authorization replaces the traditional visa for stays of less than 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program. It is important to note that ESTA applications must be submitted online at least 72 hours before departure. It is not possible to obtain this authorization once you have arrived at the U.S. border.
In addition to the ESTA, Taiwanese citizens must present a valid electronic passport (e-passport), with an integrated chip. This passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure from the United States. Proof of a return flight reservation and a contact address in the U.S. are also recommended, although not always mandatory. Travel insurance covering medical care and emergencies is highly recommended, as healthcare costs in the U.S. can be very high.
Yes, all Taiwanese citizens, including children, must obtain their own ESTA authorization to enter the United States, regardless of age. Each child must have his or her own valid e-passport and an approved ESTA application before traveling. Children cannot be added to their parents' passport or ESTA. This ensures that each traveler, minor or adult, is individually authorized to enter the United States.