Overview
ESTA approval permits travel to a U.S. port of entry; it does not guarantee admission, which remains a decision for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Rules depend on nationality, travel history, passport type and purpose, so check the Department of State and CBP directly before booking. Do not rely on a travel guide for an individual immigration decision.
A visitor visa and Visa Waiver Program admission cover limited visitor purposes rather than residence or unrestricted employment. The immigration classification, authorized period and conditions recorded at entry govern the stay. Passport validity, transit arrangements and eligibility can differ by nationality and personal history, making the traveller's current official record more important than a previously issued itinerary or approval.
