The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows eligible citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less.
Visitors who qualify for the VWP must register for the program through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Detailed VWP information and a list of qualifying countries can be found here.
The Visa Waiver Program is typically permitted for activities such as:
- Consulting with business associates
- Attending a scientific, educational, professional, or business conference
- Attending short-term training
- Negotiating a contract
Visit the official Visa Waiver Program webpage for more information about permitted activities.
Payments
Educational institutions may reimburse VWP visitors for their expenses that do not exceed reasonable travel and living costs. They may pay an honorarium provided the visit does not exceed 90 days and the visitor has not received similar payments from more than five U.S. colleges or universities in the immediately preceding six months.
Best Practices
Before inviting a foreign national to campus, email Engineering Human Resources at engineeringhrvisitors@tamu.edu to obtain appropriate guidance as to whether or not a visit under the VWP is advisable. Engineering HR will make that determination and will then coordinate with hosts and visitors all necessary forms and approvals prior to the arrival of the visitor.