The ESTA corresponds to the Electronic System for Travel Authorizationa requirement within the Visa Waiver Program. This mechanism allows citizens of 42 countries to enter the United States for tourism or business reasons for up to 90 days without needing to obtain a traditional visa.
Among the beneficiary countries are most European countries, as well as Israel, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. Chile appears as the only Latin American country included in this initiative.
Reasons for the increase in the ESTA price
The increase in the value of this permit was incorporated into the tax cuts package promoted by the Donald Trump administration and approved last July by the US Congress.
According to him Department of Homeland Security (DHS)the increase seeks to finance three specific areas: a tourism promotion fee, an operation fee and a contribution to the general fund of the Treasury Department. The adjustment adds to a series of provisions promoted by the White House to restrict immigration more harshly.
More increases in immigration procedures
The American Government He also announced other changes in costs associated with visas.
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The H-1B visa for specialized workers will increase its value $215 to $100,000.
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In addition, a new charge of 250 dollars to most non-immigrant visas, including tourism, study, exchange and work, which will take effect in October.
Impact on Chilean travelers
Currently, the ESTA process costs 21 dollars (approximately $21,000). With the new measure, the value will reach 40 dollars, close to $38,000.
Those who wish to complete this authorization can do so directly on the official ESTA website, Mandatory procedure for all Chilean travelers seeking to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver program.
