United States Visa RequirementsFor San Marino passport holders
San Marino 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.
San Marino 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
Current Travel Situation
San Marino to United States: What You Need to Know
San Marino, one of the world's oldest republics and smallest countries, is a member of the US Visa Waiver Program. The microstate is landlocked within Italy and its citizens typically travel via Italian airports. San Marino and the US maintain formal diplomatic relations, though the volume of bilateral interaction is naturally small given San Marino's population of around 34,000. Travelers use Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) or Rimini Federico Fellini Airport (RMI) for connections. San Marino's Sammarinese passport is distinct from Italian documents: travelers must use it for ESTA if it is their primary nationality, or their Italian passport if they hold dual nationality with Italy (which also qualifies for VWP).
How to Get There
From Bologna (BLQ) or Rome Fiumicino (FCO), connections to the US are available with Alitalia/ITA Airways, Lufthansa (via Frankfurt), or direct flights from Rome to New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Los Angeles (LAX), and Chicago (ORD) with American, Delta, or United.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is expected and is a social norm: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. San Marino uses the Euro, which is not accepted in the US; exchange at the airport or use ATMs on arrival.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Travel from San Marino to the US requires reaching an international airport in Italy first, most commonly Bologna or Rimini. The 90-day limit is strict. Carry proof of return travel and accommodation. US customs will ask about your visit purpose; answer clearly and honestly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do San Marino citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. San Marino is part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Sammarinese passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do San Marino citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
Which airports do San Marino travelers use to fly to the United States?
San Marino has no airport. Travelers typically use Bologna (BLQ) or Rimini (RMI). From Rome Fiumicino (FCO), direct flights to New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Chicago are available with American, Delta, and United.
How long can San Marino citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can San Marino citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a San Marino citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying leads to deportation, VWP ineligibility, and future visa difficulties.
Many San Marino citizens also hold Italian passports. Can they use either for ESTA?
Yes. Both San Marino and Italian passports qualify for VWP. Use whichever is your valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.