Requirements to Enter the United States

Traveling to the United States requires meeting several entry requirements.

You cannot enter without meeting all the conditions that apply to your nationality and individual circumstances.

Here we cover the following:

All foreign travelers entering the United States must have the following:

Your documents must fit with your travel plans. They’ll be verified by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the border.

If you’re a Chinese citizen, you can check the specific requirements for your nationality here.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave the U.S.

Certain countries are part of the Six-Month Club. This agreement means these citizens only need their passport to be valid for the duration of their stay.

If you’re applying for a U.S. visa, make sure your passport contains at least one or two blank pages for the visa stamp.

Your passport must be in good condition. Torn, expired, or water-damaged passports are not accepted.

The visa policy of the United States depends on your citizenship and reason for traveling.

Most visitors require a nonimmigrant visa (such as the B1/B2 visa) or an approved travel authorization (ESTA).

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa. They must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval to enter under this policy.

Do I need a visa to transit in the U.S.?

Yes, most travelers need a visa or valid authorization to transit through a U.S. airport. This is still relevant even if you do not leave the international terminal.

Passengers from Visa Waiver Program countries may transit with an approved ESTA, while others must hold a C transit visa or an active B1/B2 visa.

The Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is an online registration. It’s required for Chinese nationals with a 10-year B1/B2 visa.

EVUS allows travelers to update biographical information related to their visa. This ensures U.S. border authorities have accurate and current details before each visit.

You can easily complete your EVUS registration in just a few minutes with USA Visa Update.

Depending on your travel purpose, you may be asked to show:

It’s best to come prepared with as much documentation as possible, to ensure your entry is approved.

Health requirements can vary depending on your travel category and personal situation.

Do you need vaccines to enter the U.S.?

For tourists and short-term visitors, there are no mandatory vaccines to enter the country. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends being up-to-date on routine immunizations. These include:

Certain visa categories may require a medical examination and proof of specific vaccinations before the visa interview.

Medical insurance for travelers to the U.S.

Although not mandatory, travel medical insurance is strongly recommended.

Healthcare in the United States is among the most expensive in the world. Even basic medical visits can cost a lot without coverage.

Comprehensive travel insurance should cover:

It’s best to confirm coverage for U.S.-based care before traveling.

All visitors to the U.S. must follow the country’s customs regulations. Failure to comply could lead to refused entry and fines.

Travelers must complete a U.S. Customs Declaration Form (CBP Form 6059B) stating any goods that they’re bringing with them.

Read our article on U.S. customs rules for a full understanding of what you can bring.