Chileans Can Now Travel to the U.S. Without a Visa
Chileans Can Now Travel to the U.S. Without a Visa
Since early 2014, Chileans have been eligible to travel to the United States visa-free for tourism and business purposes. Under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, citizens of participating countries are eligible to remain in the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa. To do so, they must meet all the requirements explained below.
Travelers to the U.S. must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before they arrive in the U.S. To visit the U.S. under Visa Waiver Program (VWP), the traveler must meet the requirements below:
The reason for the travel must be one that is allowed on a U.S. Visitor Visa or B visa. Under a B visa, a traveler may do the following activities while visiting the United States.
Business:
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consult with business associates
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attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
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attend short-term training (no source in the United States may pay you, except for expenses incidental to your stay)
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negotiate a contract
Tourism:
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tour the United States
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vacation (holiday)
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visit with friends or relatives
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medical treatment
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participate in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
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participate as an amateur without pay in musical, sports, or similar events or contests
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enroll in a short, recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a cooking class while on vacation)
Some activities are not allowed on the VWP. They need a different type of visa for travel to the United States. Examples include:
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any kind of study, for credit
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employment
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work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
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permanent residence in the United States
Is it a good idea to get a visa, even if I am eligible to travel to the U.S. using the VWP?
Sometimes it is wise to get a U.S. visa, even if a Chilean traveler is eligible to travel visa free. One option is a Visitor visa, known as a B visa. A Chilean traveler who arrives on a B visa is typically allowed to stay in the United States for up to six months, as long as they comply with the terms of the visa.
Other categories of visas may be appropriate, depending on the circumstances. Davies & Associates can advise you on when a visa may be a good idea, and what type of visa you should pursue.
