WT/WB Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): who qualifies and what you can do

Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), citizens of participating countries can visit the U.S. without a visa for up to 90 days: WT for tourism/personal visits and WB for short business trips. However, you must have an approved ESTA before boarding, hold a return/onward ticket, and agree to no extension or change of status inside the U.S.

WT (tourism) vs. WB (business): quick map

WT (tourism): vacation, visiting friends/family, medical treatment, short recreational courses.
WB (business): meetings, conferences, contract negotiation, market research, short training without productive work.
Therefore, any hands-on employment or U.S. payroll requires a proper work visa.

Core rules & limits (read this first)

Stay limit: Maximum 90 days per entry (no extension).
No change of status: You generally cannot switch to another visa or adjust status from WT/WB.
No USCIS appeal: If refused entry at the airport, you waive most review rights under VWP.
Return ticket: Show onward/return travel and ties to your home country.
ESTA: Apply before travel; renew as needed (approval does not guarantee admission).
As a result, plan carefully if there’s any chance you will need more than 90 days.

Common business trip examples (WB allowed)

Attend meetings with U.S. partners/clients.
Negotiate or sign contracts.
Consult with U.S. colleagues on a foreign employer’s project.
Speak at a conference (honoraria limits may apply).
Install/repair equipment? → usually not WB if it’s productive work; check if a different visa (e.g., B-1 in lieu, H-1B, E-2) is required.

Red flags that cause problems

Bringing a résumé and saying you will “look for work” → not permitted.
Remote work for a U.S. employer while in the U.S. → risky; WB/WT doesn’t authorize employment.
Frequent back-to-back entries that look like de facto residence.
Overstays—even 1 day can void ESTA and complicate future travel.

Documents to carry

Passport from a VWP country (e-passport).
ESTA approval print/screenshot.
Return ticket and itinerary.
Proof of purpose: conference invites, meeting emails, hotel bookings, employer letter explaining WB activities and non-U.S. payroll.
Financial proof to cover the trip.

If you need more than 90 days (or might adjust status)

Consider the correct nonimmigrant visa (e.g., B-1/B-2, H-1B, L-1, E-2, J-1) before traveling.
Marriage/adjustment from WT/WB is very limited and can raise intent issues; consult counsel first.
Therefore, choose a path that matches your true purpose and timeline.

FAQs

Is ESTA the same as a visa?
No—ESTA is travel authorization, not a visa; CBP still decides at entry.

Can I study on WT?
Short non-credit recreational courses are fine. Degree or full-time study requires F-1/J-1.

Can I be paid by a U.S. company?
Generally no under WT/WB. Limited reimbursements/expenses may be okay; salaries usually require a work visa.

Does leaving to Mexico/Canada “reset” 90 days?
No—the same 90-day clock often continues with adjacent area travel.

How we help

First, we confirm whether WT or WB fits your itinerary and risks. Next, we draft a concise employer letter and document list for CBP. Then, if your plan needs more time or work authorization, we design the correct visa strategy. Finally, we prep you for ports-of-entry questions so your trip runs smoothly.

Unsure if WT/WB covers your trip? Schedule a consultation or call (563) 495-0554.

Disclaimer: General information, not legal advice. Rules and country eligibility can change; confirm requirements before travel.

WT Visitor Waiver / WB Business Waiver

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism (WT) or business (WB) without obtaining a traditional visa. Travelers must secure authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure. Once approved, admission under WT or WB classification permits a maximum stay of 90 days.

WT (Visitor Waiver) applies to individuals entering the U.S. for tourism or social purposes—vacationing, visiting friends or relatives, or receiving medical treatment. Evidence of strong ties abroad, a return ticket, and proof of financial support are essential for smooth entry.

WB (Business Waiver) is designated for short business activities such as attending meetings or conferences, negotiating contracts, consulting with business associates, or exploring investment opportunities. It does not permit hands-on work or payment from a U.S. source.

Travelers under either category must possess a valid e-passport from a VWP country and an approved ESTA prior to boarding. Overstaying the 90-day period or violating the permitted activities can lead to removal and future inadmissibility.

The Law Offices of Brian D. Lerner assists clients in determining the appropriate visa