ESTA approved, despite new rules? do we have to apply for visa?
I am a Danish citizen but born in Iran of Iranian parents but have not traveled to Iran. My children are born i Denmark and have only Danish passport and never visited Iran. We have approved our ESTA for traveling to US july 16, however, after the new rules, I am not sure whether we qualify for entry under the VWP? If our ESTAs are not revoked, does that mean that we are qualified? I can't see any reason that my children can't travel under VWP??
Best Answer
If I understand the new rules correctly, the important thing is not whether you currently hold an Iranian passport or not, but whether you're a citizen of Iran. Did you successfully renounce your Iranian citizenship when you acquired Danish citizenship? If not, then you're hit by the new rules and need to get a visa for yourself for the trip.
US authorities have stated that they will revoke the ESTAs for travelers they know are covered by the new rules, but even if they don't currently know you might still get into trouble if they find out later (say, when you present yourself at the airport).
If your only current nationality is Danish, and you haven't been to Iran (or one of the other targeted states) later than 2010, then you should be good to go.
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Do I need a visa if I have an ESTA?
No. An approved ESTA is not a visa. It does not meet the legal or regulatory requirements to serve in lieu of a U.S. visa when a visa is required under U.S. law. Individuals who possess a valid visa will still be able to travel to the United States on that visa for the purpose for which it was issued.What happens after ESTA is approved?
Authorization Approved Your travel authorization has been approved and you are authorized to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. The system displays confirmation of the application approval and a payment receipt notice showing the amount charged to your credit card.Can I apply for a b2 visa if I have an ESTA?
Even if you have a valid ESTA, if you apply for a visa and the application is denied, this is a changed circumstance that requires you to reapply for ESTA and the new ESTA application will likely be denied now that you have a B visa denial on record.Can you still get ESTA during Covid?
If you do get COVID-19The ESTA cost cannot be refunded if you are unable to travel due to coronavirus. However, you can then still use your ESTA for your next trip.What 10 things YOU must to know about ESTA travel authorization. Visa Waiver Program
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