Planning a trip to the United States—especially for something as exciting as the World Cup—comes with a long checklist. Flights, hotels, outfits… and then there’s the part that people tend to leave until the last minute: visa and entry requirements.
I’ve learned the hard way that this is one area you don’t want to wing. The US has very specific entry rules, and even a small mistake (like an incorrect ESTA application or expired passport) can completely derail your trip.
So in this guide, I’m breaking everything down in a way that makes sense—no confusing jargon, no overwhelming government language. Just exactly what you need to know to get into the US smoothly.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit the US?
The answer depends entirely on where you’re travelling from.
If you’re visiting from countries like the United Kingdom, most of Europe, Australia, or Japan, you’ll usually not need a traditional visa for short trips.
Instead, you’ll apply for something called an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program.
However, if you’re from countries not included in this program, you will need to apply for a full visa—typically a tourist visa (B-2).
ALSO SEE: Travel Insurance for US Trips
What Is ESTA? (And Who Needs It)
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is essentially a pre-screening travel authorization.
Think of it as permission to board your flight—not a visa itself.
You need an ESTA if:
- You’re from a Visa Waiver Program country
- Your trip is 90 days or less
- You’re travelling for tourism, business, or transit
- You’re entering by air or sea
Key things I always double-check:
- Passport validity (more on this below)
- Correct passport number entered
- Travel purpose marked as tourism
How to Apply for ESTA (Step-by-Step)
Applying for ESTA is actually one of the easiest parts of planning your US trip—but only if you do it properly.
Here’s how I do it:
- Apply online through the official ESTA website
- Fill in your personal and passport details
- Answer eligibility questions (health, criminal history, travel history)
- Pay the fee (around $21)
- Wait for approval (usually within minutes, but allow up to 72 hours)
My tip:
I always apply at least 1–2 weeks before travel, even though approvals are quick. It’s just not worth the stress leaving it late.
ALSO SEE: Cross-Border Travel Tips
How Long Does ESTA Last?
Once approved, your ESTA is valid for:
- 2 years, OR
- Until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
You can enter the US multiple times during that period, but each stay must be 90 days or less.
When You Need a Full US Visa
If you’re not eligible for ESTA, you’ll need a visa—usually a B-2 tourist visa.
You’ll need this if:
- Your country isn’t part of the Visa Waiver Program
- You plan to stay longer than 90 days
- Your ESTA has been denied
- You’ve visited certain restricted countries recently
The process is more involved:
- Complete the DS-160 form.
- Pay the visa fee
- Schedule an interview at a US embassy
- Attend the interview with supporting documents
Processing times can take weeks or even months, so this is something to plan early.
Passport Requirements for the US
This is one of the most common areas where people slip up.
To enter the US, your passport must be:
- Valid for the duration of your stay
- Machine-readable (almost all modern passports are)
- An e-passport (biometric) for ESTA travellers
For travellers from the United Kingdom and most EU countries, you don’t need six months validity beyond your stay—but I still personally prefer to have extra validity just to be safe.
What Happens at US Border Control
Landing in the US can feel intimidating, but if you’re prepared, it’s usually straightforward.
At immigration, you’ll:
- Present your passport
- Confirm your ESTA or visa
- Answer a few questions about your trip
Questions I’ve been asked before:
- “What’s the purpose of your visit?”
- “How long are you staying?”
- “Where are you staying?”
This is why I always have my hotel details handy.
ALSO SEE: How to Plan a NYC World Cup Trip from the UK
Where to Stay in New York (Easy Options for Entry)
Having a confirmed hotel makes entry smoother—and let’s be honest, it’s one less thing to worry about after a long flight.
Here are a few reliable options I’d personally book:
- The New Yorker Hotel – classic, central, great for first-time visits
- Pod Times Square – affordable, modern, perfect if you’re travelling light
- Arlo Midtown – stylish, slightly more elevated stay
All of these are well-located for exploring New York City and getting to major attractions.
Proof of Onward Travel
You may be asked to show:
- A return flight ticket
- Proof that you’re leaving the US within 90 days
Airlines often check this before you even board, so I never travel without a return booking.
How Much Money Do You Need to Show?
There’s no fixed amount, but you should be able to prove you can support yourself during your stay.
This could include:
- Bank statements
- Credit cards
- Travel itinerary
In reality, I’ve rarely been asked—but I always travel as if I might be.
Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
While not mandatory, travel insurance is something I consider non-negotiable for the US.
Healthcare in the US is famously expensive, and even a minor issue can cost thousands.
I always make sure my policy covers:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellations
- Lost luggage
ALSO SEE: Flights from London to New York for World Cup 2026
What You Can and Can’t Bring Into the US
US customs rules are strict—especially around food.
Things to avoid bringing:
- Fresh food (fruit, meat, dairy)
- Large amounts of cash (over $10,000 must be declared)
- Restricted items
You’ll fill out a customs declaration form (now often digital), so just be honest—it’s not worth the risk.
Arriving in New York for the World Cup
If you’re traveling for matches at MetLife Stadium, you’ll most likely fly into:
- John F. Kennedy International Airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport
Both are well connected to Manhattan and nearby areas.
ALSO SEE: NYC Airport Guide for World Cup Travelers (JFK vs LaGuardia vs Newark)
Things to Do Once You’ve Arrived
After clearing immigration and dropping your bags, I always recommend easing into the trip with something fun and low-effort.
Here are a few experiences worth booking in advance:
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island tour
- Central Park bike ride
- Top of the Rock observation deck
You can browse and book experiences here
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen (and nearly made) all of these:
- Applying for ESTA too late
- Entering incorrect passport details
- Forgetting to renew passport
- Booking flights before checking visa requirements
- Assuming ESTA = guaranteed entry (it doesn’t)
My Personal Entry Checklist
Before every US trip, I run through this:
- Passport valid
- ESTA approved
- Return flight booked
- Hotel confirmed
- Travel insurance sorted
- Basic itinerary planned
It takes five minutes, and it saves so much stress.
ALSO SEE: Cultural Etiquette Tips
Final Thoughts: Make Entry the Easiest Part of Your Trip
Getting into the U.S. doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require a bit of preparation.
Once you’ve sorted your ESTA or visa, double-checked your passport, and organised your documents, everything else becomes easy.
And honestly? There’s nothing better than stepping out into New York City knowing you’ve done everything right—and your trip is officially underway.
If you’re planning a World Cup trip, I’d treat your entry requirements as step one. Get that sorted early, and the rest of your planning—from hotels to outfits—becomes a lot more fun.
