What is the Visa Waiver Program?

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a program for citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business without obtaining a visa. The program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security in collaboration with the State Department. In order to qualify for the VWP, travelers must possess a valid passport from one of the participating countries, maintain a good immigration record, and provide additional information at the time of entry. California has been a participant in the VWP since its inception in 1986. Under the terms of the program, VWP travelers are allowed to stay in the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. While there are some exceptions to this rule, VWP travelers who stay in the United States for longer than 90 days may be subject to deportation. Furthermore, travelers who enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program may not change their immigration status and must leave the country after the 90-day period has expired. In addition to allowing people to travel to the US without a visa, the VWP also helps to encourage tourism in the United States. By streamlining the visa application process, the program contributes to the economic growth of California’s tourism industry. As such, the Visa Waiver Program is an important part of the US immigration system.

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