Everything You Need to Know About the Electronic System for Travel Authorization - Apply with Confidence for Visa-Free Travel to the United States
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - Apply directly through the official government website
Official guide to government information and services
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Valid for 2 years or until passport expiration, allowing multiple entries for up to 90 days per visit.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a U.S. government web-based system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It was implemented in January 2009 to enhance security measures and streamline the entry process for eligible travelers.
Convert your currency to USD - Essential for budgeting your trip
To apply for ESTA, you must meet specific criteria set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
| Europe | Asia-Pacific | Americas |
|---|---|---|
| Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom | Australia, Brunei, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan | Chile |
Valid passport, travel details, and payment method ready
Go to esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ - the only official website
Fill out personal, passport, and travel information accurately
$21 USD via credit or debit card
Most applications processed within minutes to hours
Three possible responses: Approved, Pending, or Travel Not Authorized
Typical: Most applications receive instant approval
Standard: 72 hours maximum processing time
Recommendation: Apply at least 72 hours before departure
| Fee Component | Amount (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | $4.00 | Charged for submitting application |
| Authorization Fee | $17.00 | Only charged if ESTA is approved |
| Total ESTA Fee | $21.00 | Official government fee |
Check current weather conditions across all U.S. states
View current time across different U.S. time zones
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Period | 2 years from approval date OR until passport expires (whichever comes first) |
| Maximum Stay Per Visit | 90 days for tourism or business purposes |
| Number of Entries | Multiple entries allowed during validity period |
| Extension Possibility | ESTA cannot be extended; you must leave after 90 days |
| Reapplication | Can reapply after previous ESTA expires |
You must apply for a new ESTA if:
• Your passport expires or you get a new one
• You change your name
• You change your gender
• Your country of citizenship changes
• Your previous ESTA expires
Apply for your ESTA now through the official U.S. government portal
APPLY FOR ESTA NOW →Most ESTA applications are approved instantly, but it can take up to 72 hours. It's recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your departure.
No. ESTA is only for tourism, business meetings, conferences, or transit. You cannot work or study on an ESTA. Employment requires a work visa.
If your ESTA is denied, you must apply for a visitor (B) visa through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You cannot reapply for ESTA unless your circumstances change.
Yes, ESTA allows transit through the United States to another country, as long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days.
Yes, every traveler, including infants and children, needs their own approved ESTA before traveling to the United States under the VWP.
No. The 90-day period under ESTA cannot be extended. You must leave the United States before the 90 days expire. Frequent or back-to-back trips may raise concerns.
While the vast majority of ESTA applications are approved (97.2%), some travelers may receive a "Travel Not Authorized" response. This can be concerning, but there are steps you can take.
| Option | When to Use | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Apply for B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa | Your primary option if ESTA is denied and you still want to visit the USA | Several weeks to months (includes interview) |
| Reapply for ESTA | Only if your circumstances have changed (new passport, corrected errors, etc.) | 72 hours maximum |
| Contact CBP INFO Center | For questions about your application status | Immediate inquiry, but limited information provided |
| Visit U.S. Embassy/Consulate | For visa application and clarification of travel eligibility | Varies by location |
This is the most common path forward after ESTA denial. Here's what you need to know:
Online nonimmigrant visa application
$185 USD (non-refundable)
Book appointment at U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Bring required documents and answer questions
Processing typically takes several weeks
Passport with visa stamp if approved
Cost Comparison: B-1/B-2 visa costs $185 vs ESTA's $21
Time Investment: Visa requires in-person interview at embassy/consulate
Processing: Can take several weeks to months depending on location
Validity: Visas can be valid for up to 10 years (depending on your country)
No Guarantee: Visa applications can also be denied
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| I can just reapply immediately | Reapplying without changed circumstances will result in another denial |
| I can appeal the decision | There is no formal appeal process for ESTA denials |
| CBP will tell me why I was denied | Specific reasons are not provided for security purposes |
| A denial means I can never visit the USA | You can apply for a visitor visa through the embassy |
| Using a different passport will work | The system tracks individuals, not just passports |
Official U.S. Customs and Border Protection ESTA portal
Official guide to government services and information
Convert your currency to USD for trip planning
Check weather conditions across the United States
View current time in different U.S. time zones