Everything about US entry & visas
Clear information on US visas, ESTA and Global Entry.
ESTA or Visa – What Do I Need for the USA?
For short tourism or business trips, German citizens usually only need an ESTA. We explain step by step when you instead need a B-1/B-2 visa – with a comparison table and current 2026 fees.
ESTA & Visa Waiver
Visa Waiver Program, ESTA application and requirements for visa-free entry.
ESTA & Visa WaiverApplying for ESTA in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to apply for your ESTA correctly in 2026 on the official site – with all required data, the current 40.27 USD fee, processing times and tips when problems arise.
ESTA & Visa WaiverESTA Denied – What You Can Do Now
Your ESTA shows “Travel Not Authorized”? Learn what a denial really means, why there is no appeal, and how a B-1/B-2 visa can still get you to the U.S.
Visitor & business visas
B-1/B-2 visitor visa: DS-160, interview and process for longer or special stays.
Visitor & business visasB-1/B-2: The Basics of the U.S. Visitor Visa
What the B-1/B-2 visitor visa covers, who needs it instead of ESTA and how the application works from DS-160 to interview – with the current 2026 fees and rules.
Visitor & business visasHow to Complete the DS-160 Form Correctly for a U.S. Visa
A step-by-step guide to the DS-160 online form: where to complete it, the photo specifications, which sections matter, and the mistakes that cause delays.
Visitor & business visasThe U.S. Visa Interview at the Embassy: Preparation & Process
How to prepare for your in-person U.S. visa interview in Germany: booking via ustraveldocs.com, 2026 wait times, required documents, typical questions and how to overcome the 214(b) hurdle.
Global Entry
Global Entry and expedited entry for frequent US travellers.
Entry & border
Arrival at the US border, CBP inspection, customs and the I-94 record.
Travel & daily life
Practical trip prep, payments, tipping, mobility and daily life in the USA.
Travel & daily lifeTraveling to the USA for the First Time: Preparation & Everyday Life
A practical guide for your first trip to the USA: checklist, ESTA, travel health insurance, tipping, payments, eSIM, rental cars and everyday life – with up-to-date facts for 2026.
Travel & daily lifeUS National Parks in the West: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Grand Canyon, Zion, Yellowstone, Yosemite and more: this guide covers the best routes, ideal travel seasons, the America the Beautiful annual pass, and everything you need to know before you go.
Travel & daily lifeHawaii – Islands, Beaches & Volcanoes: Your Complete Travel Guide
Honolulu, Waikiki, the Road to Hana, active volcanoes, whale watching – Hawaii packs more wonder into one US state than almost anywhere else. Find out which island suits you, when to go, and what you need to know about entry requirements.
Travel & daily lifeOrlando, Florida: Theme Parks, Planning & Insider Tips for Your Ultimate Park Vacation
Orlando is the undisputed theme park capital of the world. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort with the new Epic Universe, SeaWorld, and countless other attractions await. Find out everything about tickets, reservation systems, the best time to visit, budgeting, and family travel tips — so your Florida vacation runs smoothly from start to finish.
Travel & daily lifeNew York City – The Ultimate City Trip Guide
Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park: this guide shows you how to plan your New York City trip perfectly – from arrival and top sights to budget, the subway, and safety tips.
Travel & daily lifeCalifornia Road Trip: Los Angeles, San Francisco & Highway 1
The classic coastal road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1) connects two world-class cities with breathtaking coastal scenery, legendary national parks, and iconic beaches. This guide gives you everything you need to plan your California trip – from route and itinerary planning to rental car tips, best travel times, and budget.
Business travel
Business trips to the USA: permitted activities, preparation and etiquette.
