The American visa policy for international visitors details different entry permits for foreign nationals to visit the country. These authorizations are adapted to their reasons to visit and expected lengths of stay in the US.
The US Department of Homeland Security introduced the ESTA in 2009 to travel to the United States for short term visits for tourism, business, or transit purposes. Dutch passport holders are amongst the countries eligible to apply for the ESTA to travel to the US without needing a visa.
The US ESTA for Netherlands citizens is very advantageous compared to the standard visa application process. Dutch applicants can request an ESTA online from the comfort of their own home. They do not need to schedule an appointment at the US embassy in the Hague for an appointment, saving time and money in the process.
The ESTA, once approved, is valid for 2 years. Dutch passport holders holding an American ESTA are allowed multiple entries to the US and are authorized to stay for 90 days with each entry during these 2 years.