Requirments for visiting the US under VWP

[coolcucumber]

So, I am assuming one is that I need a return ticket. Also there is the issue of money. How much money do I need to have in order to be accepted into the country for a 2 week stay for example?

My finance was denied entry to the UK yesterday for not having a return ticket and too little funds. I was wondering under what conditions can I be denied entry into the US?

In my time visiting, I plan on taking photos and stuff to work as evidence towards getting the K1 visa application going.

Another question. Are they more likely to deny me entry if they know I have an intent to marry eventually?

[wavedom]

The basic requirements are that you need to have a return ticket and enough money to cover your entire stay. How much this is varies and I don't hink there is any fixed limit. It's always up to the CBP to make the decision. You also need an approved ESTA application.

There are many reasons why people are denied entry under the VWP, such as intentions to work, previous criminal records etc. But if you follow all the rules and regulations it's usually not a problem to travel under the VWP.

In my opinion, it is unlikely that you would be denied entry under the VWP even if the CBP knew that you are planning on applying for a K1 visa in the near future. Since you cannot adjust status under VWP, you have to leave the US within 90 days and once you leave it's not really any of their concerns if you apply for a K1. It would be different if you had a non-immigrant visa (F1, J1 etc.) and told them that you were planning on getting married. In that case it would be more problematic. However, if I was you I would avoid talking too much to the CBP about having a USC fiancé(e).

[nichole]

Since you cannot adjust status under VWP, you have to leave the US within 90 days and once you leave it's not really any of their concerns if you apply for a K.

People adjust status from VWP and people just don't leave and stay for years. Everyone is presumed to have immigrant intentions.

To the coolcucumber--the fact that you're going for 2 weeks is good. It's believable that you are on vacation or visiting friends. It's the people who plan to stay the full 90 days who are scrutinized more. Do you have a credit card? That shows you have means to cover your expenses. Do you have anything else to show strong ties to the UK like a lease, proof of being in school, proof of employment, bank statement showing some funds?

I had a long chat with a CBP information officer. He said they are more likely to deny someone who's dressed poorly and doesn't look like he could buy a cup of coffee, much less fund a 90 day vacation AND has no job and not in school and has packed possessions that wouldn't normally be taken on a vacation. If you look like a tourist and act like a tourist then you should be fine.

You don't have to tell your whole life story. Just answer their questions. What is the purpose of your trip? "I'm on holiday." Take it from there without volunteering your whole life plan. If specifically asked, then answer truthfully.

[coolcucumber]

Thank you so much to both of you. You have been a great help

[Moltisanti]

Hi

I will be visiting a friend in the uk as a first time flyer. from the usa. my visit will be 2 weeks. they are allowing me to stay with them for free for the two weeks that i’m there. and all i need to do is buy the food for myself! and i will have 100 pounds in cash 1000 usd on my debit card and a round trip ticket back. do u see any problems with this? because i’ve heard some people have been sent back for no reason at all. any help would be much appreciated. i’m just very nervous about all this its FEW WEEKS away. thanks again. btw i will have a resent bank statement proving i have 1000$$ stamped by my bank. i'm 22 years of age not working atm and i'm finished with school. i'm just going for 2 weeks as well i even have my Intinerary. i just don't want to lose all that money on airfare for no reason.

[nichole]

Yes you'll be fine.