Can I re-enter the USA after just a couple of days out of the country on a visa waiver?

Upvote:0

You can reenter, with the same small risk as your previous (and each) entry.

Central-America does reset the 90-day counter (but not Mexico and the Caribbean), but even if it wouldn't, you are within the original limit.

You should have proof of your booked final flight out of the US (they'll ask to see it, and might even verify it with the airline online; a booking confirmation email is good enough), and if questioned, explain that the Central America trip was a vacation interruption of a longer family visit.
(we did the same thing just in June, and there were no issues).

You are probably aware that every entry has a small risk of being denied, but your extra trip will not make it more risky.

Upvote:3

While a trip to Central America theoretically restarts the VWP clock, you run a significant risk that you will be denied entry on your return. The VWP is intended for "short and occasional" visits, and it is forbidden to use the VWP to live in the US for extended periods.

There is a considerable amount of subjectivity in what the border officer considers to be "short and occasional" and "extended periods". You may get admitted without even a second thought. Or they may consider that five months is too long. Or they may give you intense questioning to establish your intentions.

You should be prepared to provide lots of evidence that you will in fact return home after five months, and that you are able to support yourself, eliminating the possibility that you will attempt to work in the US.

You might also consider applying for a visa. If it is approved then you remove all uncertainty.

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