USA visa guidance · Reviewed 2026-11-02 · For Indian passport holders travelling from India
What is the difference between a US visa and ESTA?
This guide is written for Indian passport holders planning travel from India. Visa rules depend on the traveller’s exact circumstances and can change; use the official source linked below to verify the rule before payment or departure.
Short answer
ESTA is an electronic travel authorisation for eligible nationals of countries in the US Visa Waiver Program; it is not a general alternative to a US visa. Indian citizens are not eligible to use ESTA on the basis of an Indian passport and normally need the appropriate visa, such as B-1/B-2 for a qualifying temporary visit.
What to check before you apply
Read the granted visa or electronic authorisation itself. Validity, permitted stay, entry count, permitted activities and entry ports are separate conditions. A visa does not override airline document checks or the final border officer’s authority.
Documents and information to prepare
- Valid passport and any required previous passports
- Completed application form and confirmation or reference number
- Photograph and biometrics where required
- Evidence supporting the genuine purpose and length of travel
- Financial, employment, family, sponsor or itinerary evidence relevant to the case
- Decision notice or electronic visa checked against the passport before departure
Recommended application steps
- Confirm the traveller’s passport nationality, current residence and exact travel purpose.
- Use the official government source to select the correct category and verify eligibility.
- Prepare genuine documents and make sure names, dates and passport details match across the file.
- Submit through the official portal or an authorised channel, pay the correct fee and retain the receipt.
- Check the decision and every condition on the issued visa before travelling.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using an old fee, processing estimate or checklist copied from an undated website.
- Confusing visa validity with the permitted length of stay or number of entries.
- Submitting inconsistent information or documents that do not support the stated purpose.
- Assuming a visa, appointment or expedited service guarantees admission or approval.
- Booking non-refundable travel before the required visa or travel authorisation is granted.
Frequently asked questions
Which official website should I trust?
Start with the government source linked on this page. Commercial agents and information sites can explain the process, but the relevant immigration authority controls eligibility, fees and decisions.
Can Krosz guarantee visa approval?
No. Krosz is a private visa and travel assistance service, not a government authority. Only the destination government decides whether to issue a visa or admit a traveller.
When should I verify the information again?
Recheck the official source before submitting an application and again before travel, especially for fees, document rules, permitted stay, entry points and processing estimates.
Official government source
U.S. Department of State – Visitor Visa – check current rules
This page is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules, fees and processing times can change. The relevant government authority makes all visa decisions. Last reviewed: 2026-11-02.
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