French citizen, did I need a visa in 2004 and 2006 when I visited the US as a child?

French citizen, did I need a visa in 2004 and 2006 when I visited the US as a child? - Stickers with I voted inscription and flag of USA

Background:

  • I'm French and I was 13/15 years old in 2004/2006.
  • I need a B1/B2 visa this trip because I'll be entering the US in a private plane in August, which does not qualify for ESTA.

I'm currently filling out the B1/B2 visa request form.
At some point, it asks if I already traveled to the US and if I ever had a visa issued.
I went to the US 3 times before, in 2004, 2006 and 2016, each time as a tourist.

In 2016 I had an ESTA, but in 2004 and 2006 it wasn't a thing yet and my parents can't remember if they had to get a visa for me.

My question is: As a French child, did I need a visa to get into the US in 2004 and 2006?






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Does a French citizen need a visa for USA?

French citizens who intend to visit the United States of America for tourism, transit, or business-related trips of up to 90 days are not required to obtain a visa. Travelers from France can apply for a 2-year visa waiver under the US ESTA authorization instead.

What nationalities can enter U.S. without visa?

As of 2021, nationals of 40 countries and territories are eligible for visa-free entry into the United States under the VWP:
  • Andorra.
  • Australia.
  • Austria.
  • Belgium.
  • Brunei.
  • Chile.
  • Croatia.
  • Czech Republic.


Can European citizens travel to U.S. without visa?

In most cases, applying for a USA visa is not required. British and Irish citizens, as well as most Europeans, can make use of an ESTA. Applying for an ESTA saves money, time and effort compared to a visa application for the USA.

When did U.S. visa waiver program start?

The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has changed substantially over the past 30 years. It originated in 1986 as a pilot public diplomacy initiative to facilitate tourism and reciprocity of travel among countries friendly with the US.



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