Are Portuguese Citizens Allowed To Travel To Usa
As a Portuguese citizen, you may be wondering whether you are allowed to travel to the United States of America. The answer to this question is not straightforward, as there are several factors that can impact the travel restrictions for Portuguese citizens. In this article, we will take a closer look at the current state of affairs regarding Portuguese citizens travelling to the USA and explore the options available to you.
The Visa Waiver Program
If you are a Portuguese citizen planning to travel to the USA for business or tourism purposes, you may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The VWP allows citizens of specific countries, including Portugal, to enter the USA without obtaining a visa, provided they meet certain criteria.
To qualify for the VWP, Portuguese citizens must:
- Hold a valid Portuguese passport that meets certain eligibility requirements
- Plan to stay in the USA for no more than 90 days
- Have a return or onward ticket
- Have not been convicted of certain crimes or immigration violations
- Meet other eligibility criteria specified by the US government
If you meet these requirements, you can apply for authorization to travel under the VWP through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) website. Approval of your application does not guarantee entry into the USA, as US authorities will still conduct a border inspection upon arrival.
Visa Requirements for Other Purposes
If you are planning to travel to the USA for purposes other than business or tourism, such as to study, work, or permanently relocate, you will likely require a visa. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your travel and other factors.
Portuguese citizens can apply for several types of US visas, including:
- Temporary worker visas, such as the H-1B visa for specialty occupations
- Student visas, such as the F-1 visa for academic study
- Immigrant visas, such as the EB-5 visa for investors
To obtain a US visa, Portuguese citizens must apply through the US embassy or consulate in Portugal and provide relevant documentation, such as a passport, visa application fee, and proof of the purpose of their travel. Visa application processes can be lengthy and complex, so it is important to plan ahead and consult with a US immigration attorney if necessary.
COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
It is crucial to note that as of the writing of this article, there are additional travel restrictions in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Portuguese citizens travelling to the USA must comply with these restrictions, which can include mandatory quarantine periods and pre-travel testing requirements.
Travel restrictions and requirements are subject to change at any time and can vary by US state or territory. It is essential to keep up to date with the latest travel advisories and restrictions before planning any travel to the USA.
Conclusion
As a Portuguese citizen, you can travel to the USA for business or tourism purposes under the Visa Waiver Program, provided you meet certain eligibility criteria. For other types of travel, such as study or work, you will likely require a visa. However, it is important to note that travel restrictions due to COVID-19 are currently in place, and these restrictions can vary depending on your state or territory of arrival. It is essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and requirements before planning any travel to the USA.
