P1 --> ESTA

[RY84 0]

I had been working in the US for 5 years on a P1 visa as a coach and now my employment came to an end (end of Nov).  I am an Irish citizen and have a valid ESTA.  My gf lives in the US and we have been together for a few years.  I was wondering if heading back to the US (for 6 weeks) via third country would raise any flags other than the obvious them thinking that I am going back for work (which I am not).  

 

I spend maybe 3 months in the US during the year (Sep - Nov) before I had to leave.  Before that I was working outside the country.  I plan to travel mid/end of Jan.  Since I am between jobs I dont have an employment contract or rent or utilities bills.  I have been staying with family.  Maybe not strong enough ties to home?

 

I can show them I will have enough money for staying over and also a return ticket.

 

Thanks guys

 

 

[SusieQQQ 11,587]

The return ticket is mandatory for ESTA so its not really an advantage. I do think ties to home could be an issue from what you’ve said. When did your 5 year stint in the US end? 

[RY84 0]

Just now, SusieQQQ said:

The return ticket is mandatory for ESTA so its not really an advantage. I do think ties to home could be an issue from what you’ve said. When did your 5 year stint in the US end? 

It ended Nov 21 so very recently.  Understandably I don't want to go back too soon.  Which is why I was going to wait until I was out of the US for over 2 months.

[SusieQQQ 11,587]

9 minutes ago, RY84 said:

It ended Nov 21 so very recently.  Understandably I don't want to go back too soon.  Which is why I was going to wait until I was out of the US for over 2 months.

5 years in, 2 months out then back again? I’d expect you to face questions. 

[RY84 0]

Just now, SusieQQQ said:

5 years in, 2 months out then back again? I’d expect you to face questions. 

Well I had my visa for 5 years.  Worked 50/50 in Germany for 2019 and in 2020 I only spent 3 months in the US...I completely understand that they will think I am working so the onus is on me to show that I will not and strong ties to home are the only way.  

[SusieQQQ 11,587]

1 hour ago, RY84 said:

Well I had my visa for 5 years.  Worked 50/50 in Germany for 2019 and in 2020 I only spent 3 months in the US...I completely understand that they will think I am working so the onus is on me to show that I will not and strong ties to home are the only way.  

They won’t necessarily think you are working, but expect them to find out you have a girlfriend, which will make them more worried about you intending to marry and stay. Remember you don’t have to volunteer anything to CBP but you do have to answer questions truthfully.

[Boiler 45,911]

Mayve wait until you have a job and some ties before making another trip.