The United States hosts several spectacular Formula 1 Grand Prix events — including races in Miami, Austin (COTA), and Las Vegas. If you’re travelling from abroad, you may need a US visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to attend.
This guide explains who needs a visa, which options are available for F1 visitors, and how to apply in time for race weekend.
1. Determine if You Need a Visa or ESTA
The US has two main ways for international visitors to enter for tourism:
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
Citizens of 40+ countries (including Australia, UK, EU/Schengen nations, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand) can enter the US without a visa for up to 90 days if they get an ESTA online. - Visitor (B-2) Visa:
If your country is not part of the VWP (e.g., India, China, South Africa, most of Africa, some Asia & Middle East), or if you have been denied ESTA before, you’ll need a B-2 Tourist Visa.
✅ Check if your passport is VWP-eligible: https://travel.state.gov
2. Visa & ESTA Options for F1 Fans
| Entry Type | Who Can Use It | Validity | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESTA (Visa Waiver) | Citizens of VWP countries | 90 days | Usually minutes–72 hrs |
| B-2 Tourist Visa | All other nationals | Usually 6–10 yrs multi-entry (90 days per trip) | Weeks–months depending on embassy |
3. Applying for ESTA (If Eligible)
Step 1 — Apply Online
- Go to the official site: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Complete the form (passport info, travel plans, security questions).
Step 2 — Pay the Fee
- Current fee: USD $21
- Pay by card or PayPal.
Step 3 — Approval
- Usually approved within minutes, but can take up to 72 hours.
- Print or save your ESTA confirmation (airlines check it before boarding).
⚠️ Apply at least a week before travel to avoid last-minute issues.
4. Applying for a US B-2 Tourist Visa (If Not ESTA-Eligible)
Step 1 — Complete the DS-160 Form
- Fill out online at https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC
- Upload a digital passport photo (US-style).
Step 2 — Pay the Visa Fee
- Standard fee: USD $185 (non-refundable).
Step 3 — Schedule a Visa Interview
- Book at your nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
- Wait times vary (from a few days to several months).
Step 4 — Prepare for the Interview
- Required documents:
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond travel dates
- DS-160 confirmation & fee receipt
- Recent US-format passport photo
- Travel plan (F1 race ticket confirmation, hotel bookings)
- Proof of funds (bank statements, pay slips)
- Proof of ties to home country (job letter, property, return ticket)
Step 5 — Attend Interview & Wait for Visa
- Answer questions about your trip purpose and ties to your home country.
- Most approvals are done in a few days; passport returned with visa stamp.
5. Planning for the Grand Prix
- Book early: F1 weekends (Miami, Austin, Las Vegas) sell out hotels fast.
- Allow visa time:
- ESTA: Apply at least 1–2 weeks before departure.
- B-2 visa: Apply 2–3 months early (some embassies have long wait times).
- Multiple entries: If planning other US trips, a B-2 visa is valid up to 10 years for repeat visits.
- Travel insurance: Recommended for trip cancellation and medical cover.
6. Typical Costs (2025)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| ESTA | USD $21 |
| B-2 Visa | USD $185 |
| Race Tickets | USD $300–$2,000+ (varies by race & seating) |
| Hotels During Race Weekend | USD $150–500/night |
| Travel Insurance | USD $50–150 (varies by coverage) |
7. Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Use only official sites: ESTA (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov) and US State Department (https://travel.state.gov). Avoid scam sites.
- Apply early: Especially for B-2 visas — check interview wait times at your local embassy.
- Bring your F1 ticket proof: Helps explain your travel plans if asked at the border.
- Check passport validity: Must be valid 6+ months beyond your stay.
- ESTA validity: Good for 2 years or until passport expires — perfect if you plan to visit again.
- Allow airport time: US immigration queues can be long during major events.
Quick Race-Travel Checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months after your trip)
- ESTA approval or B-2 visa stamp
- F1 Grand Prix tickets
- Hotel/Airbnb booking confirmation
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of funds & employment (especially for visa interview)
- Travel insurance