While obtaining ESTA approval is reasonably straightforward, you might be confused about what to expect at a US port of entry while traveling.

This article covers commonly encountered airport incidents when traveling with ESTA. Read on to learn what to expect and how to get yourself travel-ready for your trip to the US.

Do I Need any Other Documents Apart From ESTA?

Apart from your ESTA approval, you will be needing your digital passport. It is fitted with a chip inside. A digital passport holds a characteristic logo on its front, that makes it stand out. 

This passport must also contain a machine-readable zone on the biographic page. A machine-readable passport includes two lines of text at the bottom of the information page. 

The text comprises symbols and alphabets. 

Note that if you do not possess a machine-readable passport, you will not be issued an ESTA. Furthermore, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after entry into the US. 

You are eligible to apply for ESTA if you have a passport issued by one of the zemlje VWP-a. Additionally, ever since the covid pandemic, you are also required to possess a covid 19 vaccination certificate.

Documents to Carry in Case of Name/ Gender Change

If you have changed your name or gender recently, you need to carry legal documentation. Along with proof of your new identity, you must also carry proof showing that you were the owner of the previous identity. 

As long as you have not made the changes to your passport yet, you can travel using your previous identity and corresponding ESTA.

Documentation Which is Not Mandatory but Good to Have

Once you enter the US you will have to provide border security agents regarding your purpose of visit to the country and where you will be residing during this time.

It is useful to carry documents supporting your answers. For instance a copy of your return ticket (indicating the stay is not going to be for more than 90 days), hotel reservation receipts, and any documentation related to your purpose of visit. 

Other documentation that might be useful when traveling includes medical insurance. This will keep you medically covered throughout your stay in the US.