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One World Trade Center reflected in the water

Do you need a visa for New York?

Pick your passport. You’ll see whether it’s an ESTA, a visitor visa or nothing at all — what it costs, what to bring and how long it takes.

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Based on esta.cbp.dhs.gov, travel.state.gov and Presidential Proclamation 10998, checked November 2026. US entry rules change without notice; the officer at the border makes the final decision.

ESTA or visa: the difference.

ESTA ONLINE · FEE ON ESTA.CBP.DHS.GOV

For citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries. Valid for two years, up to 90 days per visit, for tourism, business meetings or transit.

B-2 visa INTERVIEW · WAIT TIMES VARY BY CONSULATE

For everyone else visiting for tourism. Apply at a US embassy or consulate; the officer decides how long you can stay when you land.

Nothing CANADA · BERMUDA

Canadian citizens and Bermudians can usually visit with just their passport, without an ESTA or a visa.

Landing at JFK.

What happens between the plane door and the AirTrain.

  1. 01Passport controlESTA travelers can use the free Mobile Passport Control app to fill in details before reaching the officer. Expect questions about your hotel and plans.
  2. 02Baggage and customsDeclare fresh food, plants and more than US$10,000 in cash. Most visitors walk straight through.
  3. 03Into ManhattanAirTrain to Jamaica, then the subway or LIRR — or the taxi rank for a flat fare to Manhattan plus tolls and tip.

Questions

How long before my trip should I apply for an ESTA?

As soon as you start planning — at least 72 hours before departure. Most are approved within minutes and stay valid for two years.

How much does a US tourist visa cost?

The B-2 application fee and the visa integrity fee charged at some consulates are set by the US government and change. Check the current amounts on travel.state.gov before you apply; the integrity fee is not charged if you’re refused.

Can I use an ESTA if I have a criminal record or a past visa refusal?

Possibly not. The ESTA form asks about both. If you answer yes, you may be refused and need to apply for a visa instead.

Do children need their own ESTA or visa?

Yes. Every traveler, including babies, needs their own ESTA or visa.

Is my hotel booking enough proof for the border?

Officers usually ask where you’re staying and when you’ll leave. Keep your hotel confirmation and return ticket on your phone.

Entry sorted. What will it cost?Flights, rooms, food, the subway — and whether an attraction pass is worth it.
Open the calculator →

Every nationality, A to Z

200 nationalities from the State Department's lists, reviewed November 7, 2026. Not legal advice: confirm on the official sites before you travel.

ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) 42

B-2 visitor visa 114

Visitor visas suspended (Proclamation 10998) 39

No visa, no ESTA 2

No visa (Compact of Free Association) 3

BOOK YOUR STAY

Where will you stay in Manhattan?

Midtown for a first visit, SoHo or the West Village for character, the Upper West Side for the park. Live prices for your dates open in the IMPT app.

Hotels in Manhattan →Hotels by neighborhood

Photo credits: Following NYC on Pexels.