Travelling to…

UNITED STATES

of AMERICA

What can we help you with?

Visa
Banking & Taxes
Housing & Renting
Healthcare
Transportation & Driving

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Visa

If you're visiting the U.S. just for tourism, you’ll need the B-2 Tourist Visa. Here's a simple breakdown of what it is and how it works:

The B-2 Visa is for people travelling to the U.S for leisure or tourism purposes. It covers activities like vacations, visiting family or friends, attending social events or other recreational activities.

Prior information

Firstly, before you apply for a visa, check if your country is not part of the VWP list.

The VWP list or Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business without needing a visa,

Instead of applying online for a visa, travelers must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before their trip.

Countries part of the Visa Waiver Program

  • Andorra

  • Australia

  • Austria

  • Belgium

  • Brunei

  • Chile

  • Croatia

  • Czech Republic

  • Denmark

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • France

  • Germany

  • Greece

  • Hungary

  • Iceland

  • Ireland

  • Israel

  • Italy

  • Japan

  • Latvia

  • Liechtenstein

  • Lithuania

  • Luxembourg

  • Malta

  • Monaco

  • Netherlands

  • New Zealand

  • Norway

  • Poland

  • Portugal

  • Qatar

  • Romania

  • San Marino

  • Singapore

  • Slovakia

  • Slovenia

  • South Korea

  • Spain

  • Sweden

  • Switzerland

  • Taiwan

  • United Kingdom

How to apply for an ESTA?

Go to the official ESTA website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

  1. Fill out an application (personal details, passport info, name, birthdate, etc.)

  2. Travel details (address in the U.S. of where you are staying, flight info, etc.)

  3. Answer security questions (criminal record if you have one, previous U.S. visa issues, etc.)

  4. Pay the application fee

  5. Wait for the approval (most applicants are approved instantly or within minutes)

  6. Receive your ESTA authorization (ESTA is electronically linked to your passport, no need to print anything)

How to apply for a B-2 visa?

If your country is not on the VWP list, here is a quick and simple step-by-step guide on how to apply for your visa and what to expect:

  1. Fill out a DS-160 online visa application: https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC

  2. Pay the Visa fee

  3. Schedule a visa interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate

  4. Attend your visa interview (bring DS-160 form, valid passport, visa appointment confirmation, visa fee payment receipt, passport-size photo, proof of strong ties to your home country, travel itinerary, property ownership, financial proof)

  5. If approved, they will keep your passport and stamp the visa inside!

Processing times varies by country, some can take a few weeks to a few months

Renting

If you're visiting the U.S. short-term (1–3 weeks), you’ll likely need to rent a place to stay. Tourists can’t sign long-term leases (6–12 months) without proper visas or credit history, but there are plenty of short-term rental options available.

Options for renting in the U.S.

    • Easiest option (no documents or deposits required)

    • Many price options (budget to luxury)

    • Daily housekeeping and amenities

    • Can be expensive, especially in big cities

    • Best for longer stays (1+ week)

    • More space, kitchen access and privacy

    • No credit check or U.S. documents required

    • Some hosts require security deposits

    • Prices fluctuate based on demand

    • Designed for longer visits (1+ week)

    • Have kitchen and laundry facilities

    • No lease or paperwork required

    • More expensive than an Airbnb

    • Some tourists rent from locals for a month or less

    • Can be cheaper than hotels

    • Some landlords require proof of income or credit history

    • Riskier - void scams

Transportation

The U.S. is a huge country, so getting around depends on where you're staying and how far you're traveling. Here’s a complete guide on transportation options:

Public Transportation in the U.S.

    • New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Boston have trains, buses, and subways.

    • Costs: $2 - $3 per ride, or $80 - $130 per month for a pass.

    • Public buses exist but are less frequent and slower than cars.

    • Many people use Uber, Lyft, or taxis instead.

    • Useful for long-distance travel (e.g., NYC to Washington D.C.).

    • More expensive than buses but comfortable.

    • The U.S. is huge! Many people fly between cities instead of driving.

    • Budget airlines (like Spirit, Southwest, Frontier) offer cheap flights.

Renting a car in the U.S.

Renting a car in the U.S. as a tourist is pretty straightforward, but there are some important things to know.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Check eligibility requirements (Most rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 usually pay a “young driver” surcharge)

  2. Valid drivers license (some states or rental companies require an IDP (International Driving Permit along with your license)

  3. Understand insurance options (CDW/LDW, Liability Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

Car Insurance Options

    • Covers the damage of the rental car

    • Covers damage to others in case of an accident

    • Covers medical insurance

Check if your credit card or travel insurance already provides rental car coverage to avoid paying extra