UPDATED JANUARY 2025
In early 2016 the US introduced a ruling which makes anyone who has visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, Libya, Yemen or Sudan since 1 March 2011 no longer eligible for their visa waiver programme commonly known as ESTA. Since January 2021, Cuba has also been added to this list. So, rather than obtaining an ESTA, if you have visited one of those countries since 1 March 2011, you will need to apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate.
Fortunately, acquiring a visa is a relatively straightforward process and once acquired, your visa will be valid for ten years, so you won't need to repeat the process for some time. We feel that this is a small price to pay for the unforgettable experience of visiting (or having visited) some of the world’s most fascinating, if misunderstood countries.
This is what the process currently involves, based on various Wild Frontiers team members’ experiences over the last few years.
Step 1: Completing a DS160 form
This is a form you must complete to start your application. You complete the form here https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. Be warned, though, it is quite a detailed form and takes around 60 minutes. You will need to upload a digital passport-style photo, which should be 2 x 2 inches. You will also need your passport details to hand when completing the form, as well as the dates of any previous US visits in the last ten years. Upon submitting the last screen, you will be given a confirmation which you need to print out and save.
Step 2: Arranging an interview (if needed)*
You now need to arrange your interview at the US embassy. To do this visit: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-gb/niv and create an account. The Home Page is a little confusing, so if you get lost, just visit: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-gb/niv/signup. Here you can book the interview, but you must pay $160 for the visa, and another £18 if you wish your passport to be posted to you once the visa is complete. Finding an available interview slot can take around two weeks.
*In some cases, such as if you’re renewing an existing visa, you may not need to attend an interview. If that’s the case, then you’ll just need to select which designated official drop-off and pick-up points you want to use for your passport. There are several nationwide.
Step 3: The interview (if needed)
If you need an interview, you’ll likely find a big queue outside the embassy. Once inside, you will have to go through security and will then be given a number. You will wait to be called to the first window where they take your passport and ask a few questions about your visa. You then wait again to go to a second window where they will ask you some more questions. At the end of this, which just takes a few minutes, you will be told if your visa has been approved and when you will receive your passport. The entire visit typically takes around 2 hours.
Step 4: Your Passport is returned to you with a Visa
Usually within 5 working days. Alternatively, you can pick your passport up at one of several designated official pick-up points nationwide.
