Canada and the USA are considered absolute dream destinations for many holidaymakers. While when you think of the United States, you immediately think of the metropolises and national parks, when you think of Canada, you think of hospitality and the outstandingly beautiful nature. However, in order to be allowed to visit these dream destinations, you must first apply for the appropriate visa – for Canada the eTA travel authorization Canada and for the USA the ESTA authorization.
Entry requirements USA
If you have decided to travel to the USA as a tourist, there are a few things to consider in advance. This should not dampen the anticipation of a great holiday in this great country, because the preparations have to be managed. A country rich in sights that cannot be counted in their diversity. Tourists from all over the world come to see the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone National Park. Of course, the big world-famous cities, such as New York or San Francisco, attract millions of visitors every year.
The lucky city of Las Vegas is also very popular, where many people hope for quick money. For most people, Niagara Falls is a must-see on their sightseeing tour. Islands, such as Hawaii, are also a popular destination.
The most important documents
First and foremost, of course, is the passport, without which nothing works. Children and babies also need it. It is important to pay attention to the validity, because it must be valid for the entire duration of the stay in the USA and not only for entry.
German citizens cannot enter the United States without a visa.
To enter the country without a visa, you need an e-passport. This also applies to children. If you do not have an e-passport, you must contact the US Embassy in Berlin or the Consulates General in Frankfurt or Munich and apply for a visa there.
It is very important that when there is an appointment for a visa application, you have all the requested papers together. It is easier and faster to request the application online according to the ESTA system. The price here is 39 euros.
A tourist who wants to go on a temporary holiday needs a visa category B -2, while a businessman needs a B -1 visa. The price for a B visa is about 144 euros.
When to request an ESTA travel authorization?
An ESTA travel authorization should be requested on average 72 hours before the start of the trip. Often it works out even later, but why take a risk? The validity is one to two years, but only if the passport is still valid.
Entry into the USA
Entry is more complex than you are used to in other countries. After the terrible terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the United States increased its security precautions. The controls are more complex and time-consuming, which is why it is good to adjust to them internally. It is very important to be at the airport early, as the luggage is thoroughly checked for explosives. Liquids and all electronic devices are tested separately. Passengers are also screened in detail. This applies to their own safety, to which all passengers attach great importance.
At passport control, a photo is taken and fingerprints are taken, then everything is over and the adventure can begin.
Entry requirements to Canada
The conditions for Canada are similar to entering the USA.
Since 2016, as a German citizen, you must also be in possession of an electronic entry permit – eTA – in conjunction with a valid passport. Before 2016, the passport was sufficient. The electronic entry permit can be purchased online for about 5 euros and you only need your credit card. It then remains valid for 5 years.
Entry into Canada
Here, too, security measures have been increased over time on entry, but also on domestic flights and longer controls must be expected. Here, too, this is only done in the service of the safety of all passengers.
When everything is done, you are expected to see a great country. Cosmopolitan, friendly and with the many attractions the country has to offer, it is always worth a trip. The great winter sports resorts, overwhelming natural wonders, the beautiful, creative cities, such as Montreal with its famous jazz festival or the largest city Toronto, where music, art and fashion are very important, shows the great joie de vivre of the Canadians.
The preparations are worth it
Even if traveling to the USA or Canada requires a certain amount of preparation, it is always worth it. Start early so that all the necessary papers are there, preferably work with a checklist, then there is no stress, but a relaxed start to the holiday.
