Formalities to travel to the USA

France is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows French nationals to access the territory through an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Please note, however, that certain categories of travelers or nationalities are excluded from the visa waiver program, such as travelers who have visited Cuba since January 12, 2021; in this case, a visa will be necessary. For any other nationality, please inquire with the relevant authorities.

ESTA is mandatory for anyone (including minors) transiting through the United States before reaching their final destination or wishing to visit the U.S. for a maximum of 90 days for tourism purposes.

We recommend applying through the official ESTA website by clicking here ( at least 72 hours before your departure, although we recommend applying as soon as possible) and advise you to have a passport valid for at least 6 months.

Important: Please note that if you're not flying direct and having a stopover in the U.S. before reaching your final U.S. or international city (e.g. Paris - Seattle, Seattle - Los Angeles or Paris - New York, New York - Honolulu), you must collect your luggage during this first stopover on the U.S. soil.

After passing through immigration, you will need to collect your luggage and leave it at a baggage drop-off in the connecting flights area.

Note: ESTA allows travel under the VWP but does not constitute a right to enter the U.S., which is granted or denied upon arrival by the immigration officer