United States Visa RequirementsFor Brunei passport holders
Brunei passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Brunei passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
eTA Application (Online)
Complete the online eTA application form with accurate passport details, travel plans, and background information. Pay the USD 21 fee online by credit or debit card.
Required at Entry
eTA Approval (Email)
Your Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) approval email, which is electronically linked to your passport. Save a digital copy; printing is optional but recommended.
Valid Passport
The same passport used for the eTA application. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport number and cannot be transferred to a different passport.
Return or Onward Ticket
A confirmed return or onward flight from United States. Required for air travel even with an eTA, as airlines verify authorization before boarding.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Bank statements or credit card evidence showing you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in United States.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter showing where you will be staying in United States.
Current Travel Situation
Brunei to United States: What You Need to Know
Brunei is one of only two Southeast Asian nations admitted to the US Visa Waiver Program, reflecting the strong bilateral relationship built on shared security and energy interests. Brunei joined the VWP in 1993. The US is a significant trading partner for Brunei, which exports liquefied natural gas to American and allied markets. Brunei passport holders enjoy VWP access that is rare in the ASEAN region. Travel to the US typically routes through Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), or Hong Kong (HKG) due to limited direct long-haul routes from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN). If you hold dual Brunei and non-VWP nationality, use your Brunei passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
From Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN), Royal Brunei Airlines flies to Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), and other regional hubs, where connections to the US are available with Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, or US carriers. Common US gateways include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and New York (JFK).
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Tipping is expected and not optional: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for taxis and hotel staff. The Brunei Dollar is pegged to the Singapore Dollar but is not exchangeable in the US. Bring USD or exchange at Singapore or Kuala Lumpur airports for better rates.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure, keeping in mind that long-haul flights from Brunei involve multiple connections and transit times. Carry proof of onward travel and hotel bookings. Do not overstay the 90-day limit, as this carries severe immigration consequences. US customs forms must be completed accurately; declare all food items and gifts brought from Brunei.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Brunei citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Brunei is part of the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Bruneian passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do Bruneians apply for ESTA?
Apply at the official US government website esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21 by card, and receive your authorization, usually within minutes.
How much does ESTA cost for Brunei citizens?
$21 USD total: a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee. Paid online by credit or debit card.
How long can Bruneian citizens stay in the United States?
Up to 90 days per visit on ESTA. The stay cannot be extended while in the US.
What airlines fly from Brunei to the United States?
There are no direct flights from Brunei to the US. Royal Brunei Airlines flies to Singapore (SIN) and Kuala Lumpur (KUL), where connections to Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO) are available with Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, or US carriers.
Can Bruneian citizens work in the US on an ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Employment requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA authorizes you to board your flight, but a US CBP officer makes the final admission decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Brunei citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation leading to deportation, loss of VWP eligibility, and difficulties getting future US visas.