Visiting Spouse From UK On ESTA

[HLLondoner 0]

I'm thinking of visiting my spouse who in a US citizen living in the US. I live in the UK and have a valid ESTA. We submitted the i-130 and i-130a forms earlier this year and they are being processed. From what I can see, I would be able to fly directly from the UK to the US on an ESTA in spite of the travel restrictions because I am a close family member. Am I correct and what should I make sure to do before flying? Does anyone have any experience of this or anything similar?

 

Thanks in advance and all the best.

[Crazy Cat 41,903]

You are exempt from the travel restrictions as a spouse of a US citizen.  Be prepared to show proof of your marriage to a US citizen as well as evidence of strong ties to your home country.  Lastly, don't forget the Covid requirements.  Remember, every visit is subject to the discretion of CBP at the border.  It is your responsibility to convince them that you will return after the visit. 

Edited August 29, 2021 by Crazy Cat

[HLLondoner 0]

On 8/29/2021 at 1:44 PM, Crazy Cat said:

You are exempt from the travel restrictions as a spouse of a US citizen.  Be prepared to show proof of your marriage to a US citizen as well as evidence of strong ties to your home country.  Lastly, don't forget the Covid requirements.  Remember, every visit is subject to the discretion of CBP at the border.  It is your responsibility to convince them that you will return after the visit. 

OK thanks, that's what I thought. In terms of evidence of strong ties, I am currently a graduate student. From what I've read that's generally seen as a looser tie than actual employment. What else would work to demonstrate my intention to return - obviously a return ticket, the lease on the place I'm renting - anything else?