You recently travelled to Cuba and now want to visit the United States. You're probably wondering whether this could affect your ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application, which is required for visa-free travel to the USA. In this article, we'll explain the steps to take and the important points to consider when applying for an ESTA. applying for an ESTA after a stay in Cuba.
What is ESTA?
ESTA is an electronic system that facilitates visa-free travel for citizens of 39 countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program, including France and most European countries. It allows you to obtain a a temporary residence permit for tourism or business purposes for a maximum of 90 days.
This simplified procedure does not dispense with the need for a valid passport, but it does avoid the lengthy administrative procedures usually required to obtain a visa.
ESTA eligibility requirements
To be eligible for ESTA, you must :
- Be a national of a member country of the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP)
- A biometric or electronic passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from the USA.
- Plan to stay in the USA for less than 90 days
- Travelling for tourism, business or in transit to another country
- Have not previously been refused entry to the United States
How do I apply for an ESTA after travelling to Cuba?
Since the restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in 2015, restrictions on travel to the country have been eased. Nevertheless, certain specificities still apply and may influence your ESTA application.
Questions about Cuba on the ESTA form
During the online ESTA application process, you will be asked a number of questions relating to your previous travels. One of them specifically concerns Cuba:
"Have you travelled to Cuba since March 1, 2011?"
It is imperative to answer this question honestly, as falsifying the information provided can lead to the cancellation of the authorisation and make the traveller inadmissible to the United States.
Impact of previous trips to Cuba on ESTA applications
Previous travel to Cuba since 12 January 2021 may affect a French or European national's eligibility for an ESTA for the United States. However, the American authorities may consider certain particularities, such as the reason for the stay in Cuba and its duration.
Travellers who have visited Cuba for professional reasons or who have carried out financial, commercial or scientific activities related to the country are likely to attract more attention when applying for an ESTA for the USA.
How long is an ESTA valid for?
Once ESTA authorisation has been granted, it is valid for two years or until the expiry date of the passport used for the application, whichever is the earlier. Approved authorisation to travel to the United States as many times as necessary within this period, provided that each stay does not exceed 90 days.
However, it should be noted that obtaining an ESTA does not automatically guarantee entry to the United States. Immigration officials always have the right to refuse admission to a person crossing the border, even if they are in possession of a valid ESTA.
Additional documents required for travel to the USA after a stay in Cuba
If you are concerned by this subject, it is therefore advisable to carry out your applying for a visa at an embassy or consulate so that your ESTA application is not rejected. It may also be useful to prepare certain documents for additional checks when you arrive in the USA. During your appointment at the consulate, the American authorities will be able to give you advice for your arrival in the USA.
Keep proof of your stay in Cuba
To prove that you have travelled to Cuba, we recommend that you keep supporting documents such as :
- Return air tickets
- Hotel or accommodation reservations
- Entry tickets for on-site tourist activities
- Receipts or bills from restaurants or shops in Cuba
Valid passport with Cuban stamp
A valid passport with an entry and exit stamp from Cuba will also be useful as proof of your previous stay in the country.
That said, if you have travelled to Cuba since 12 January 2021, you may not be eligible for ESTA.. We advise you to contact an embassy to apply for a traditional visa directly with the authorities. Don't hesitate to bring all the supporting documents you need for your visa to be approved.
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