The American Visa Process for Australians
The first part of the process of applying for an American visa is knowing what type of visa to apply for, or even if a visa is necessary. For brief temporary visits to the U.S., whether the purpose is business or pleasure, Australians generally do not need American visas. Under the “Visa Waiver” program, Australians merely have to obtain clearances under the “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” (ESTA). ESTA clearances can be obtained online, currently cost U.S. $14 per clearance, and must be obtained before entering the U.S.
If an Australian is planning a longer-term stay in the U.S., and/or needs permission to work or study there, he or she will almost certainly have to apply for one of the many specific types of American visas. For example, an E3 visa will allow an Australian to work in a variety of occupations in the U.S., unless he or she is a journalist (in which case an I visa might be required), a religious worker (possibly requiring an R visa), or an athlete or performing artist (maybe a P). While each visa has different documentary requirements and fees (ranging from U.S. $140 to $390 per visa on top of supplemental fees for certain visas), virtually all visa applications will require the filling out of a Form DS-160 and a personal appearance before a U.S. consular officer abroad. Certain visa types (generally work visas) may also require pre-authorization by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or another U.S. government agency.
Unfortunately, being rejected for American visas for any reason can make it harder to get into the U.S. on future attempts. Therefore, it is very important to be clear about what kind of American visa you need from the beginning and carry out the process with maximum candor and minimum error.