Is travelling to the US on an ESTA permit, with intentions of working legit?
I plan to visit America for approximately 6 weeks. I intend on flying to the US on an ESTA permit, which will allow me the max stay of 90 days but simply to travel for social or business. However, my intentions are to ‘work’. Is it legit to meet with the guys in charge, sign contracts and then apply for a work permit with the contract whilst I am staying in the US.
To begin with it was going to be a low key thing, which meant the US would simply believe I was there visiting, and cash would be in hand. I disagreed with this and not much has been processed since, as apparently a contract will only been shown if I’m there. This is what unsettles me. Am I right to trust this deal?
Another point is of my sisters concern. A major point is the ‘man in charge’ is in fact my sisters partner. She has visited over the past 8-9 months, 4 times, visiting on her ESTA, maxing out two of her ESTAs staying for odd days (roughly 10-25+) and coming back to the UK for very short visits. I have been made aware me travelling with her will make it easier for her to pass through the border. My main concern is whether I am right to follow through with the ESTA permit and follow these plans? My final concern is I have suspicions with the thoughts of my sister and the POE Official may have said something to her on her previous stay in regards to suspicions.
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Can I travel to the US for work on an ESTA?
Working with an ESTA: allowed or not? Under most circumstances, working in the USA with an ESTA is allowed. The services performed must fall under the definition of a "business trip". The most important requirement to qualify a trip as a business trip, is that you do not enter into employment with an American company.Are you allowed to work on ESTA visa?
When entering the U.S. with ESTA it is not permissible to work for a U.S. company (for example the subsidiary of a foreign employer) or to perform the actual work in the U.S. even if the work is subject to an agreement with a foreign client outside the U.S.Can you get caught lying on ESTA?
If CBP discovers you lied on an ESTA form, your application will be denied within 72 hours of submission. Furthermore, you will likely have your ESTA denied even if it was previously approved. In many situations, your ESTA may be approved and then denied without notice or explanation.Can I work remotely from the US on an ESTA?
An ESTA therefore allows you to work in the USA, but only if the employer paying you is located outside the United States. Joining a US company or starting a new business is only possible with a US visa or work permit.What 10 things YOU must to know about ESTA travel authorization. Visa Waiver Program
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