Is re-entry on a tourist visa after being in USA for ESTA for almost 3 months a problem? [duplicate]

I am in the States on ESTA, but I like it here and would like to stay longer and explore more, so I decided to travel to Canada to apply for a B1/2 visa to re-enter for longer period.

MOST IMPORTANTLY : Will my ESTA (visa waiver) period of 90 days still keep counting while I am in Canada, even if I left the US (but not to my residential country, as I am European)? Or will it stop counting on the day I leave the USA?

Could that be a problem, or is it OK and I will probably be granted the tourist visa? Do you know how long it usually takes the Toronto consulate? Is it a problematic spot?

Can I enter straight after the visa is issued, even if it is just a week after I left the USA?

Thanks a lot!

visas usa esta

Best Answer

No, it's not a problem. The "90 days" rule applies only if you're entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). If you go to Canada, receive a B1/B2 tourist visa and return to the US using that visa, it's not a VWP re-entry, but an entirely new entry.

You still have a problem though: convincing the Toronto consulate to grant you that visa if you've just spent 3 months in the US as a tourist, since they're going to suspect you're working illegally. You'll need proof of funds to support yourself and some proof that you're going to leave the US.

(Also, ESTA and VWP are not the same thing, but that's a different answer.)

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Can I travel twice on the same ESTA?

Your ESTA authorization is generally valid for multiple trips over a period of two years (starting the date that you are approved) or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. As long as you received an ESTA authorization to travel, you do not have to reapply during the validity period.

How many times I can enter US with ESTA?

There is no limit on the number of times you may enter the U.S. under either ESTA of a visa. However, if reentering the U.S. using ESTA soon after staying for nearly 90 days, you can expect to be questioned in detail by the immigration officer about the purpose of your visit.

How soon can I reenter the USA on tourist visa?

How Soon Can You Visit the U.S. Again on a B Visa? Technically you can visit the United States whenever you want to if you have a B1/B2 visa and a valid passport. There aren't any rules or laws requiring you to wait a specific time before you are allowed to return.

Can an ESTA be used for multiple entries?

An ESTA can be used for multiple entries into the United States. Should an individual find themselves in a situation where they wish to visit the United States repeatedly beyond the 90 days permitted by ESTA, then a B-1 Business Visa or B-2 Tourist Visa may be a more suitable alternative.

ESTA USA | Step by Step Guide

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