ESTA Application Process for Italian Travelers
As an Italian 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:
- Go to the official ESTA website
- Select “Italiano” as your preferred language
- Click on “Applica” to start a new application
- Complete the application form with your personal information, passport details, and travel plans
- Answer all security questions honestly and accurately
- Review your application carefully for any errors before submitting
- Pay the ESTA fee (approximately 14 USD or 13 EUR) using a credit or debit card
- Wait for approval (typically within 72 hours, often much quicker)
Local Considerations for Italian Applicants
- Your Italian 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 (all Italian passports issued since 2006 meet this requirement)
- 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
- Italian dual citizens must use their Italian passport for ESTA application and travel
Travel Information
Flight durations from Italy to the United States vary depending on your destination:
- Rome to New York: Approximately 9-10 hours
- Milan to Chicago: About 10-11 hours
- Venice to Los Angeles: Around 13-14 hours (usually with one stopover)
Popular routes and attractions for Italian travelers:
- New York City: Experience the vibrant metropolis, visit Central Park, and enjoy world-class museums
- San Francisco: Explore the city’s unique culture, visit Alcatraz, and see the Golden Gate Bridge
- Miami: Enjoy the beaches, nightlife, and large Italian-American community
- Las Vegas: Experience the unique entertainment and casino culture
- 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 Italy and the US when planning your trip (Italy is typically 6-9 hours ahead, depending on the US time zone)
Cultural Tips
- Tipping is expected in the US, more so than in Italy. Budget for 15-20% tips in restaurants
- Americans generally have a positive view of Italian culture and may be curious about your home country
- Distances in the US are much larger than in Italy – plan accordingly when traveling between cities
- The drinking age in the US is 21, which is higher than in Italy
Italian-American Connections
You might be interested in visiting areas with strong Italian-American communities:
- New York City: Particularly neighborhoods like Little Italy in Manhattan and Arthur Avenue in the Bronx
- Boston: Especially the North End neighborhood
- Chicago: Known for its deep-dish pizza and Italian-American community in neighborhoods like Little Italy
- San Francisco: Visit North Beach, also known as Little Italy
Useful Italian Phrases in English
- “Grazie” – “Thank you”
- “Buongiorno” – “Good morning”
- “Parla italiano?” – “Do you speak Italian?”
Remember to check the official ESTA website and the US Embassy in Italy for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip. Stay informed about any changes or updates to the ESTA process for Italian citizens, especially in light of global events that may affect international travel.
