πΊπΈ Visa & customs
US ESTA approval and the customs bans people get caught by
Travel to the United States, including Hawaii and Guam, requires an approved ESTA obtained at least 72 hours before departure.
This one is about Visa & customs β something worth settling before departure so you are not spending local time on it. Work through the 3 checkpoints below in order.
Key checkpoints
- Use the official site (esta.cbp.dhs.gov) and pay the $21 fee β third-party agents charge $80β$100 for the same thing
- Any processed food containing meat is strictly banned (beef paste, jerky, noodle soup sachets) and will be confiscated and fined
- Have your return e-ticket and accommodation booking ready to show at the border
What to do before departure, in order
Two rules decide the order. First, anything with a deadline β pre-registration, bookings, documents to be issued: miss the cut-off and there is no substitute. Then whatever also works locally, which costs little to postpone.
Most of the items above can only be done before you leave. After arrival, patchy connectivity and opening hours make them harder, so finish what you can while you are still at home.
What to pay attention to in the United States
US routes require electronic travel authorisation in advance, and approval can take time. Applying right before departure risks being denied boarding while it is still pending.
Border questioning is detailed, so be ready to state the purpose of your stay and where you are staying.
π‘ On a domestic connection in the US you collect your checked bag at the first airport, clear customs, and re-check it yourself.