US visa

[Luzzly]

Is it possible to obtain a US visa from the UK without visiting the US embassy?

[Answerprancer]

They normally give you one on the plane (the green visa waiver card).

[dzug2]

A visa waiver and a visa are entirely separate things. The former is permission to travel WITHOUT a visa - it isn't in itsself a visa

If you are eligible for a visa waiver then you don't need to go to the Embassy - the green form on the plane is a thing of the past and you must apply online at

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/

If you need a visa and are between the ages of 14 and 79 then you have to go to the Embassy in person. No way round it.

[Luzzly]

Thank you dzug. I take it that a 19 year old UK citizen doesn't get a waiver?

[237SJ]

A 19 year old UK citizen would get an esta which is basically the visa waiver online.

[dzug2]

A 19 year old UK citizen can get a waiver provided they meet the conditions for a waiver - that is - holding return ticket, staying no longer than 90 days, are not going to work, are not a drug addict or alcoholic, have no real criminal record and a few other things.

'criminal record' causes the most problems

[I.Don No]

some of my family are travelling to the USA later this year and none of them, adults or children had to go to the embassy....all done by application forms

[mockingbird]

you need to apply for an ESTA which is permission to travel - USA operate a visa waiver system for many european countries- like a visa doesn't guarantee entry -costs £10- five minute form online