How can I travel to the United States without a visa?

Traveling to the United States without a visa is possible for many foreign nationals. The most common way to do so is through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which is available to citizens of certain countries. The VWP allows travelers to enter the United States without obtaining a visa, but only for short stays, typically up to 90 days. In order to participate in the program, travelers must apply online using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The ESTA application collects information about the traveler which is then used to determine their eligibility to travel without a visa. In addition to the VWP, citizens of some countries may also be eligible for a Border Crossing Card. This card can be used to cross the U.S.-Mexico border up to 25 miles within the U.S. without a visa. The card is valid for up to 10 years and is available to some residents of Mexico who meet certain requirements. Finally, travelers may also be able to enter the United States without a visa if they are eligible for the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 245(i) program. This program allows certain immigrants to adjust their status even if they entered the country without a visa or other permission. However, it is only available to those who have an immediate family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. In California, all travelers entering the United States are subject to the same safeguards and screening for illegal immigration regardless of the immigration status they have. Those found to be in the U.S. without proper documentation can be subject to deportation.

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Para viajar a los Estados Unidos sin visa, hay algunos programas que pueden utilizarse. Primero, usted puede solicitar una exención de visa, que le permite permanecer en los Estados Unidos por un corto período de tiempo sin una visa. En segundo lugar, si califica, puede aplicar para el Programa de Exención de Visa de Estudiante, que le permite estudiar en los Estados Unidos por hasta 12 meses. Si es elegible, también puede aplicar para el Programa de Exención de Visa de Trabajo, que le permite trabajar en los Estados Unidos por hasta un año. Otra forma de viajar a los Estados Unidos sin visa es a través del Programa de Exención de Visa de Turista, que le permite a los turistas estadounidenses permanecer en los Estados Unidos por hasta 90 días. Finalmente, si usted es un ciudadano de uno de los países que participan en el Tratado de Libre Comercio de América del Norte (TLCAN), entonces puede viajar a los Estados Unidos sin una visa con el permiso TN. Sin embargo, sea cual sea su situación, su mejor opción es contactar a un abogado de inmigración calificado en California para que lo ayude a entender las leyes de inmigración y los procedimientos de visa más apropiados para su situación.

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