Staying in USA while working for a company as an international courier - possible on ESTA?
I have a chance to live in California but work for a European company and I'm not a US citizen.
the work involves constantly leaving and returning from other countries as a courier. I would be paid by foreign companies.
is this classed as working in USA or would I be able to do this on my ESTA?
Best Answer
The question of work is irrelevant. You are not allowed to live in the US on a Visa Waiver Program.
VWP is for 'short and occasional' visits to the US. When they find that you are really living there you will be deported or denied entry, depending on when it happens. They will find out because they will track your entries and exits. Your frequent visits abroad will not help, even if they are to distant countries.
If you want to live in the US you will need an appropriate visa.
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Can I work in the USA on an ESTA?
Working in the USA with an ESTA is allowed, provided the traveller does not enter into direct employment with an American company. The traveller is allowed to be paid for the works performed in the USA, as long as the paying party is located outside of the United States.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.Can you travel for business on an ESTA?
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.How long can you stay in USA with an ESTA?
The ESTA lasts for up to two years after it is granted. During this period, travellers (EU and UK citizens) are allowed to make an unlimited number of trips to the USA. Each stay can last a maximum of 90 days. However, the validity of the ESTA can, in certain cases, expire earlier.Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
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