I overstayed in the US by about 4 years in 1997 and left voluntarily. Can I now come back as a tourist? [duplicate]

I overstayed my visitors visa by just over 4 years, but returned home in 1997 - will I still be able to gain access to the USA when going on a holiday after all this time? I was never deported and never stopped at the airport - I just left the USA as a normal traveller. The ESTA form asks if you have ever overstayed - do I put yes or no?

I was a single woman when I came home, but am now married (separated) with two children under 18. I have my own business in the UK and would have no intention of staying in the USA except on a family holiday. What would be the consequences if I answered 'no' on the application form?

Best Answer

As JoErNanO's comment says, don't ever lie to visa or immigration officials.

As you have overstayed in the past, you will probably not be eligible to use VWP, and will thus have to apply for a visa instead.

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I overstayed in the US by about 4 years in 1997 and left voluntarily. Can I now come back as a tourist? [duplicate] - Back view anonymous romantic couple hugging and observing urban modern New York street while riding ropeway cabin

I overstayed in the US by about 4 years in 1997 and left voluntarily. Can I now come back as a tourist? [duplicate] - Unrecognizable couple riding ropeway cabin and taking photos of city

Can I come back to the US if I overstayed?

Overstays & Unlawful Presence If you enter the United States with a valid visa (for example, a tourist or student visa) and overstay by less than 180 days, your visa will be considered void and you'll need to get a new visa in your home country if you want to come back to the United States.

How does immigration know if you overstayed?

Travel Records It's pretty easy for foreigners in the U.S. to know if they've overstayed their visas. All they need to do is look at their I-94 arrival and departure cards, which clearly state how long they can stay.

Can an overstay be forgiven?

Can my U.S. visa overstay be forgiven? Yes, there are cases where the government will forgive your visa overstay, and you can obtain a waiver.

What happens if you overstay tourist visa?

If you overstay your visa, it is a serious situation. Penalties are as follows: Overstay by 180 days or more, but less than one year -- you will be barred from re-entering for three years. Overstay by one year or more -- you will be barred from re=entering for ten years.

What is a Visa Overstay? Consequences and Solutions to Over staying a Visa

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