Confused on how to help my future mother-in-law attend our wedding

[hplusj 135]

Hi everyone:

 

My fiancé and I are trying to get information to my future mother-in-law, a former South African now living in Australia with a valid Australian passport, on how she can attend our wedding in Vegas this fall.  I keep trying to research what she needs in preparation for the trip, and am absolutely stumped. 

 

One source says she needs to apply for an interview for a B2 visa.

Another says she lives in a country covered by the VWP, so an ESTA needs to be completed.

And yet another source says she doesn't need to file anything at all, and just have her valid passport, enough money on-hand for the trip, proof of return flight and other confirmations such as her hotel stay.

 

I am concerned that if I don't understand what is needed in advance and give her the info she needs, that she's going to have issues at customs and not know what to say or do.  She's in her 70s and this will be her first time visiting the US.  How can I assist her in navigating this process?

 

[NorthByNorthwest 351]

10 minutes ago, hplusj said:

Another says she lives in a country covered by the VWP, so an ESTA needs to be complete.

 

This is the correct answer. Australian citizens only need ESTA.

[hplusj 135]

4 hours ago, NorthByNorthwest said:

 

This is the correct answer. Australian citizens only need ESTA.

Plain and simple, that's what I needed.  Thank you!