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Planning a trip to the United States from the historic streets of Rome or the fashion hubs of Milan? For Italian citizens, the gateway to America is simpler than a traditional visa. Thanks to Italy’s participation in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), travelers can apply for an ESTA, which stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the 2026 requirements to ensure a smooth, safe, and stress-free journey with USA ESTA from Italy.

Quick Reference: ESTA Visa Types & Validity

Before we go into the details, here is a quick overview of the various types under which Italian passport holders can apply for ESTA:

Do Italian citizens require a visa to enter the USA?

The quick answer is: Not for stays under 90 days.Italian citizens are Visa Waiver Program Visa Waivers. Rather than the standard "sticker" visa from the embassy, you will need an ESTA only. The electronic visa is an association with the passport and will permit entry for tourism/business, transit, or health-related matters.

What Is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)?

The ESTA is a system operated by U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) in relation to assessing the eligibility of visitors entering the United States. The system operates as a pre-screening mechanism promoting sound security measures without making traveling more complicated for countries considered trustworthy, such as Italy.

Mandatory USA ESTA Requirements for Italians

To successfully apply, you must fulfill certain criteria. The first and foremost criterion for successful application is the Valid e-Passport (Electronic Passport). Your Italian passport must have a micro-chip and the biometric tag on the cover.

Essential Documents:

• Passport Bio Page: Scanned, high-quality page that contains your passport photo and biographic information.



• Applicant's Photo: Digital copy of a recent photo taken facing front.



• Active Email Address: To get your authorization and updates.



• Payment Method: Debit/credit card for the processing fees to complete the transaction.

Understanding eVisa Requirements and Eligibility

While the process has been made online, you must ensure:

• Your stay is not more than 90 days.



• Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Although Italy is part of the "Six-Month Club," having extra validity is better to be safe.



• You have a confirmed return or onward ticket.

Can I work on an eVisa or ESTA?

One myth about being an ESTA is that it allows you to seek employment. You are not allowed to work on an ESTA visa. It is designed for tourism, business, or transit purposes. If you are going to work within the United States for an employer or undertaking productive activities, it is necessary to apply for the Work Visa (for example, H-1B or L-1 visa) through the U.S. Embassy in Rome or Consulates in Milan, Naples, or Florence.

Application Process: How to Apply - Step-by-Step ESTA Application Process

The application is completely online. Here's how to do it:

1. Fill out the Form: Give personal data, passport details, and employer information.



2. Answer Security Questions: There are 9 mandatory "Yes/No" questions relating to health, criminal record, and previous travel to restricted countries such as Cuba, Iran, or Syria.



3. Upload Documents: Scan your passport bio page and upload your photograph.



4. Review and Pay: Check every letter (one typo in your passport number might mean a denied boarding).

USA ESTA Processing Options and Timings

While most applications are approved quickly, the U.S. government recommends applying at least 72 hours before departure, considering USA Urgent eVisa Processing time.

• Standard Processing: 6-9 Working Days (Best for early planners).



• Rush Processing: 4-7 Working Days - This is the balanced option.



• Super Rush Processing: 3-5 Working Days (For last-minute departures).

Is the USA a safe destination for Italian tourists?

Yes, the United States is a very safe travel destination in general. On the other hand, as in any major travel destination in the world, it is imperative to be alert in any crowded place. The United States has state-of-the-art security, but it is essential to keep important documents safely.

Processing a Transit Visa through ESTA

If you are traveling from Italy to South America or the Caribbean with a layover in NYC or Miami, you still have to get a U.S.A Transit visa  ESTA. The United States doesn't have "sterile transit," so if you don't leave the plane, you are still going to have to go through customs and you must have proper authorization.

Cash to Carry and Currency Exchange Options

The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Though there are exchange kiosks at Italian airports and major US hubs, the rates can be pretty bad.

• Pro Tip: Make a small exchange from Euro to USD at your local Italian bank before you leave.



• ATM/Bancomat: You can take out cash from "ATMs" in the U.S. but watch out for the overseas transaction fees.

Using Cards as a Tourist in the USA

"The US is a plastic-first country. Most Italians can pull out their Visa, Mastercard, Amex credit or debit cards and pay for virtually any service, from an espresso for 2 dollars to a five-star hotel room."

• Check Compatibility: Make sure your card is “International” and inform your bank about the dates of your trip to “avoid fraud blocks.”



• Tipping Culture: It’s worth reminding that tipping in the USA is 18-22% at a restaurant, and this is taken through the card machine.

Traveling from USA to Canada or Mexico

In the case of someone holding an ESTA, you may visit Canada, Mexico, and the nearby islands for a short stay. In most instances, you will automatically receive entry to the United States for the balance of the original 90 days.

Conclusion: Ready for your American Dream?

Protecting your USA ESTA while in Italy is the first and foremost step in your journey. By making sure you have an e-passport and applying for the visa a week in advance, you can concentrate on the enjoyable parts of your holiday, be it the Grand Canyon, the lights of Las Vegas, or the monuments in Washington D.C.

Summary Checklist:

• [ ] Valid Italian e-Passport



• [ ] Digital Photo



• [ ] Email & Credit/Debit Card



• [ ] 10 Minutes to fill out the form



• [ ] At least 72 hours prior to travel