Croatia ESTA visa

ESTA Application Process for Croatian Travelers

As a Croatian citizen, you are eligible to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Navigate to the official ESTA website
2. Select “Croatian” as your preferred language if available, otherwise use English
3. Click on “Apply” to start a new application
4. Fill out the application form with your personal information, passport details, and travel plans
5. Answer all security questions truthfully and accurately
6. Review your application carefully for any errors before submitting
7. Pay the ESTA fee (approximately 14 USD) using a credit or debit card
8. Wait for approval (typically within 72 hours, often much quicker)

Local Considerations for Croatian Applicants

• Your Croatian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the US
• Ensure your passport is an e-passport with a digital chip
• If you’ve visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen since March 1, 2011, you may not be eligible for ESTA and should apply for a regular visa instead
• Croatian dual citizens must use their Croatian passport for ESTA application and travel
• Be aware that Croatia is a relatively new addition to the Visa Waiver Program, so stay informed about any updates or changes

Travel Information

Flight durations from Croatia to the United States vary depending on your destination:

• Zagreb to New York: Approximately 9-10 hours (direct flight, if available)
• Zagreb to Chicago: About 10-11 hours (usually with one stopover)
• Zagreb to Los Angeles: Around 13-15 hours (typically with one stopover)

Popular routes and attractions for Croatian travelers:

1. New York City: Experience the vibrant metropolis, visit iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square
2. Florida: Enjoy theme parks in Orlando and beaches in Miami, popular among European tourists
3. California: Explore diverse cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, and visit national parks
4. Chicago: Discover the architecture, deep-dish pizza, and Midwestern culture
5. Washington D.C.: Visit the capital and explore its many free museums and historical sites

Important Reminders

• Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your planned travel
• An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
• ESTA allows multiple entries to the US within its validity period
• Carry a printed copy of your ESTA approval and have electronic access to it
• Be prepared to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay
• Consider the time difference between Croatia and the US when planning your trip (Croatia is typically 6-9 hours ahead, depending on the US time zone)

Cultural Tips

• Tipping is expected in the US, unlike in Croatia. Budget for 15-20% tips in restaurants
• Americans may be less familiar with Croatia, so be prepared for questions about your home country
• Distances in the US are much larger than in Croatia – plan accordingly when traveling between cities

Remember to check the official ESTA website and the US Embassy in Croatia for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip. As Croatia is a newer member of the Visa Waiver Program, stay informed about any potential changes or updates to the ESTA process for Croatian citizens.