Doc Summary
Planning a trip to the United States from Australia? Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify to travel under the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA, or you may need a B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa. This guide explains both pathways with official links, fees, documents, and timelines—so you can apply correctly the first time.
At a glance: Your application path #
- For visits up to 90 days for tourism or business and you hold an eligible ePassport: apply for ESTA via the Visa Waiver Program.
- If you’re not eligible for ESTA, plan to stay longer than 90 days, or have specific circumstances: apply for a B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa.
Step 1: Choose between ESTA (VWP) and a B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa #
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program): Australian citizens generally qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, allowing tourism or business visits for up to 90 days without a visa if you obtain an approved ESTA. You must hold a valid ePassport (with an electronic chip), have no previous overstay/visa violations, and meet eligibility criteria. Apply at the official site: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.
B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa: Apply for a B‑1/B‑2 if you are ineligible for VWP/ESTA, intend to stay longer than 90 days, need flexibility, or your travel purpose falls outside ESTA. Official overview: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html.
ESTA application: simple, online, and fast #
- Prepare: Valid Australian ePassport, contact details, and a payment method. The ESTA fee is typically US$21 (subject to change).
- Apply online: Submit your application at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/. Most decisions arrive within minutes, but apply at least 72 hours before departure.
- Validity and travel: An approved ESTA is generally valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and for multiple trips of up to 90 days each. If ESTA is refused, you must apply for a visa (B‑1/B‑2).
B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa: step‑by‑step from Australia #
- Complete Form DS‑160: Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application at https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC. Save your application ID and print the confirmation page with barcode.
- Create a profile and pay the MRV fee: Register at https://www.ustraveldocs.com/au/, select B‑1/B‑2, and pay the machine‑readable visa (MRV) fee (commonly US$185; confirm current fee). Keep your receipt.
- Book your appointment: Use your USTravelDocs profile to schedule biometrics and an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Australia. Locations and guidance: https://au.usembassy.gov/visas/. Some applicants may qualify for an interview waiver—follow the prompts on USTravelDocs.
- Prepare documents:
- Passport valid for travel to the U.S. (preferably with 6+ months’ validity beyond your intended stay)
- DS‑160 confirmation page and appointment confirmation
- Passport‑sized photo meeting U.S. specifications
- Proof of funds and ties to Australia (employment letter, recent bank statements, property/lease, family ties)
- Travel plan (itinerary, accommodation), previous U.S. visas, any name change documents
- Supporting evidence if applicable (conference invites, medical appointment letters, etc.)
- Attend biometrics and interview: Arrive early with required documents. Expect fingerprinting and questions about your trip, ties to Australia, and funds. Answer truthfully and clearly.
- Processing and return: After approval, your passport is kept for visa printing and returned by courier. Check current wait and processing times here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/wait-times.html.
Costs and timelines #
- ESTA: Usually US$21; decision in minutes to 72 hours.
- B‑1/B‑2 MRV fee: Commonly US$185 (fees can change; verify via USTravelDocs Australia).
- Timing: Allow weeks for scheduling interviews in busy periods. Post‑interview processing is often a few business days, but can be longer.
Proving ties and avoiding refusals (section 214(b)) #
- Demonstrate strong ties to Australia: stable employment, study enrolment, property/lease, family commitments, and return plans.
- Keep your purpose consistent with a visitor visa—tourism, visiting family, short business, or medical treatment.
- Bring well‑organised documents and answer questions clearly.
- Disclose prior travel history and any prior U.S. visa issues honestly.
- Consider comprehensive travel insurance suitable for the U.S.
After arrival in the U.S. #
- Your final authorised stay is decided by a CBP officer at entry.
- Check and save your I‑94 record here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/.
- ESTA stays are capped at 90 days; B‑2 stays are typically up to six months but are determined by CBP on entry.
Frequently asked questions #
How long can I stay? ESTA permits stays up to 90 days per visit. B‑2 visitors are commonly admitted for up to six months, subject to CBP discretion and your I‑94 record.
Can I work or study? No. Neither ESTA nor B‑1/B‑2 authorises employment or formal study in the U.S.
How long is a B‑1/B‑2 visa valid? Many Australians receive multiple‑entry visas with validity of up to several years. The length of each stay is set at entry by CBP.
What if my ESTA is denied? You must apply for a B‑1/B‑2 visa via DS‑160 and attend an interview.
When should I apply? ESTA: at least 72 hours before flying (earlier is better). B‑1/B‑2: apply weeks to months in advance to account for interview availability and processing.
Need expert help? #
For personalised guidance on selecting ESTA vs B‑1/B‑2, preparing documents, and navigating timelines, our team at Skills Campus is here to assist. Learn more at https://skillscampus.com.au/ or contact us directly: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.
Important: Policies, fees, and processing times can change. Always verify details on official U.S. government sites before applying.
