Leaving USA to Central America and coming back to reset a 90 day VWP?
I currently am on the Visa Waiver Program (valid until September 2016) and am allowed to stay 90 days in the USA. I will be leaving before the end of the 90 days, going to Guatemala or Costa Rica, stay for a week or so, and then come back for another two months.
My questions are :
- Will my 90 days be reset ?
- Do I have to apply for a new Visa Waiver or can I use the same for my second 90 day stay ?
Best Answer
Your VWP comes under the ESTA program and is valid for a two year period. You don't need to reapply for anything during this time, and indeed you can use it multiple times, and they email you when it's expiring.
However, there is, as you've acknowledged, the 90 day rule. Even more frustratingly, as many have found out, you cannot reset it by simply going to Canada or Mexico.
Yes, it will be reset if you go to Costa Rica or Guatemala. However, as with any entrance into the USA, it's up to the border agent as to whether or not you are permitted to enter.
Such a trip will raise a potential flag as 'possible border run', which some might do if they're working under the table in the US but want to maintain a visa. So to placate them, and assuage their concerns, you'll want to provide evidence that you're only staying for two more months. Itinerary, bookings, train/bus tickets if you have them, and definitely your flight out of the US at the end of the two months.
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How long do I have to leave America before I can re enter?
There is no set period you must remain outside the USA before returning but: "When traveling to the U.S. with the approved ESTA, you may only stay for up to 90 days at a time - and there should be a reasonable amount of time between visits so that the CBP Officer does not think you are trying to live here.Can I leave and come back after 90 days on 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.Which countries count to reset my ESTA visa waiver?
This means if you travel to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean Islands after you visit the USA, your time in these countries will count towards your 90 day visa waiver. Crossing the border to Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean Islands DOES NOT reset your visa waiver.Does Costa Rica reset ESTA?
Yes, it will be reset if you go to Costa Rica or Guatemala. However, as with any entrance into the USA, it's up to the border agent as to whether or not you are permitted to enter.What is the Visa Waiver Program in USA | ESTA | Stay for 90 Days in the U.S.A | Zavala Texas Law
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