VISA USA - ESTA ONLINE FOR ITALIAN PASSPORT HOLDERS
Italian citizens can travel to the United States for up to 90 days by applying for visa USA online (ESTA). The system, which is entirely online, allows citizens of Italy to obtain a US travel authorization for travel related to tourism, business, medical purposes and short-term study programs. By obtaining a United States travel authorization, an Italian traveler do not need a visa to enter the USA. If you hold a passport from Italy, you can apply for your USA travel authorization today in less than 10 minutes. If your travel authorization is not approved, you will have to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa at your nearest U.S. Embassy. The U.S. Embassy is located in Rome, Italy.
Italy joined the Visa Waiver Program in October 1989, together with 5 other countries. From October 2014 to October 2015, 1,204,574 Italian nationals traveled to the United States using the Visa Waiver Program.
When the ESTA system was introduced in 2008, it made it easier for Italian nationals to visit the United States (the system became a mandatory in 2009). Travelers may apply today, however the processing request may take up to 72 hours. It is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before departure. It is also required to travel with a signatory carrier. Alitalia – Societa Aerea Italiana S.P.A. is a well-known signatory carrier in Italy.
Signatory Carriers for visiting the USA under the VWP
Signatory Carriers (Airlines):
- Alitalia – Societa Aerea Italiana S.P.A.
- Blue Panorama Airlines
- Cargolux Airlines International, S.
- Meridiana fly S.p.A.
- NEOS S.p.A.
Signatory Carriers (Cruises):
- Costa Cruises, Inc
- MSC Crociere
- Silversea Cruises
- Cunard Line Limited
General information:
US Embassy and Consulates in Italy:
- Website: https://it.usembassy.gov/
- The US Embassy in Italy is located in Rome.
- The US Embassy in Rome offers services for both Italian and American citizens.
- The US Consulates in Italy are located in Florence, Milan and Naples.
Italian passports:
- All Italian passport holders are advised to have a valid passport for at least six (6) months prior to departing for the United States. Also, Italian passports are required to be machine-readable (e-passport). If you hold a machine-readable Italian passport, you may apply for ESTA.