Planning a trip to the United States from Iceland? As an Icelandic citizen, you are generally eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which requires obtaining an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) instead of a traditional visa. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a smooth application process, covering requirements, different trip types, processing times, and important policies. Learn all about USA ESTA for Iceland Citizens and ensure your travel plans go smoothly without any delays.
What are the ESTA requirements?
As a citizen of Iceland, you are eligible to apply for ESTA if you meet specific criteria associated with the VWP.
Passport Requirement: You must possess a valid, unexpired electronic passport (e-Passport) with a digital chip. This is mandatory for all VWP travel.
Trip Purpose: Your travel must be for tourism, business, transit, or medical treatment.
Duration of Stay: Your planned stay in the US must be 90 days or less per visit.
No Prior Issues: You must not have specific prior issues, such as past visa denials, extensive criminal history, or a recent travel history to certain restricted countries.
What Kinds of US Trips Can I Take with an Approved ESTA?
The ESTA authorizes multiple types of short-term travel, all limited to a maximum stay of 90 days.
ESTA for Tourism (90 Days): For recreational travel, visiting friends or family, taking a vacation, or enrolling in short, non-credit courses.
ESTA for Business (90 Days): For attending professional conferences, consultations with business associates, settling an estate, or negotiating contracts. It does not permit paid employment or permanent residence.
ESTA for Transit (90 Days): For travelers who are passing through the US en route to another country.
ESTA for Medical (90 Days): For seeking medical consultation or treatment within the US.
What documents do I need to apply for an ESTA?
The ESTA is an online application, but you must have certain information and documents ready to fill it out accurately, keeping in mind the document requirement for USA ESTA .
Valid Icelandic Passport: You will need to provide all information from your valid e-Passport, including the passport number, issue and expiration dates, and personal biographical details.
Personal Information: Your full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
Contact Information: Your current home address, phone number, and a valid email address.
Employment Details: Name, address, and telephone number of your current or most recent employer (if applicable).
Travel Details (if known): Your first night's accommodation address in the US. If you do not have confirmed plans, you may be able to enter 'UNKNOWN' or the primary contact person's address, but it's best to have your initial lodging details.
Emergency Contact: Name, phone number, and email for an emergency contact person, who can be in the US or outside.
Payment Method: A credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover, etc.) or PayPal to pay the required processing and authorization fees.
What is the easiest way to apply for ESTA?
The ESTA application is completed entirely online. Following a systematic process ensures accuracy and reduces delays.
Enter Information: Fill out the required sections: Applicant Information, Passport Details, Personal Information, Travel Information (including your first US contact), and Employment Information.
Review and Verify: Double-check all entries for typos, spelling errors, and correct passport dates. A simple mistake can cause issues.
Submit and Pay: Submit the application and pay the required fees. You will receive a reference number.
Receive Authorization: You will be notified by email of your application status (Approved, Pending, or Denied).
How long does ESTA approval take?
While the recommendation is to apply as soon as you begin planning, service providers often offer tiered processing options for varying needs.
Note: These timelines are estimates. It is always recommended to apply early, as application review times are not guaranteed and can sometimes take up to 72 hours even under standard conditions.
How quickly are ESTA refunds issued back to my account?
If your cancellation request meets the eligibility criteria, the refund process is initiated quickly, but the final transfer time depends on financial institutions.
Processing Fee: A refund processing fee of at least 20 USD may be applied to any refund issued.
Payment Method: All refunds are issued back to the same payment method used for the initial purchase.
Refund Timelines: While the refund is initiated swiftly on our side, your bank or financial institution may take 4 to 17 business days to complete the transaction and show the credited amount in your account.
Data Removal: When an application is successfully canceled, your personal data is automatically removed from our system.
What City Has the Most Entertainment in the USA?
When it comes to entertainment, no city in the USA matches the vibrant energy and variety offered by Los Angeles, California. Known as the entertainment capital of the world, LA combines movies, music, nightlife, and cultural experiences in a way few other cities can. Whether you are a fan of Hollywood, live music, or fine dining, Los Angeles offers endless options to enjoy and explore.
Key Points:
Hollywood: The global hub for film and television production. Studios and tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making.
Music Scene: From iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl to underground music clubs, the city caters to all tastes.
Nightlife: Trendy bars, rooftop lounges, and nightclubs provide nonstop entertainment.
Cultural Diversity: Museums, theaters, and art galleries showcase a rich mix of American and international culture.
Events & Festivals: Annual film premieres, music festivals, and cultural events make the city a constant hotspot for entertainment.
Los Angeles remains unmatched for anyone seeking a city packed with entertainment opportunities.
Conclusion:
It is a crucial and easy process of getting your Electronic System of Travel Authorization (ESTA) as an Icelandic citizen in your US travel plans under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Two fundamental principles of being proactive and accurate are the keys to successful and stress-free experience. You ensure that you are done long before you are going out, preferably weeks before, and you are guaranteed of sufficient time to get through the processing time that is required, be it standard or expedited service. Moreover, it is not negotiable that all the information you provide is right up to the last bit of information including your passport details as well as your responses to the eligibility questions. It is important to keep in mind that the ESTA is a temporary travel authorization that can last up to 90 days on every visit to work, visit, or transit. After your ESTA is authorized, there would be no way to cancel or even refund the authorization. That is why you need to be very careful when making your payment. With these tips and knowledge of the related terminologies, you would be able to ensure that your travel documentation is organized and you are able to concentrate on having a good time as a tourist in the United States.
