How to Apply for an ESTA: A Complete Guide

If you are planning a trip to the United States for tourism, business, or transit, you must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure. The ESTA is a mandatory travel authorization for eligible travelers under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply for an ESTA, including requirements, processing times, and additional travel tips.

What is an ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines whether travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries are eligible to enter the United States without a visa.

An approved ESTA allows multiple short-term visits of up to 90 days per trip within its two-year validity period (or until your passport expires).

Who Needs to Apply for an ESTA?

Travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries must apply for an ESTA if they are:

✅ Visiting the U.S. for tourism, business, or medical reasons
✅ Staying in the U.S. for 90 days or less
✅ Entering the U.S. by air or sea

You do NOT need an ESTA if you:

❌ Have a valid U.S. visa
❌ Are a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder
❌ Plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 90 days (you must apply for a U.S. visa)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an ESTA

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before you apply for an ESTA, ensure you have:

• A valid passport from a Visa Waiver Program country
  
  

• A credit or debit card to pay the application fee
  
  

• A valid email address to receive ESTA confirmation
  
  

• Travel details (optional but recommended)
  
  

Step 2: Access the ESTA Application Website

Visit the official ESTA website or a trusted third-party visa agency to begin your application.

Step 3: Fill Out the ESTA Application Form

The ESTA application form requires the following details:

• Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
  
  

• Passport details (passport number, issuance/expiration date)
  
  

• Travel details (flight and accommodation information)
  
  

• Security questions (criminal history, past visa denials, health concerns)
  
  

Double-check all information before submitting your ESTA application online to avoid errors.

Step 4: Pay the ESTA Application Fee

The ESTA fee consists of:

• A processing fee (mandatory)
  
  

• A service fee (if using a third-party service)
  
  

You can pay using credit card, debit card, or PayPal.

Step 5: Submit Your ESTA Application

Once you apply for an ESTA, your application is processed within minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours for approval.

Step 6: Check Your ESTA Status

After submission, you can check your ESTA application status online. There are three possible results:

• ✅ Approved – You are authorized to travel to the U.S.
  
  

• ⏳ Pending – Your application is under review (check back later).
  
  

• ❌ Denied – You must apply for a U.S. visa at the nearest embassy.
  
  

How Long is an ESTA Valid?

An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can make multiple trips to the U.S., as long as each visit does not exceed 90 days.

What Happens If Your ESTA is Denied?

If your ESTA application is denied, you must apply for a U.S. visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Common reasons for ESTA denial include:

• Incorrect or mismatched information
  
  

• A previous visa rejection
  
  

• Criminal history or security concerns
  
  

To avoid rejection, ensure all details are accurate when you apply for an ESTA online.

Related Topics: Important Travel Information

Do You Need an ESTA for a Transit Stop in the U.S.?

Yes! Even if you do not plan to stay in the U.S., you still need to apply for an ESTA if you have a layover or transit stop in a U.S. airport.

Can You Renew an ESTA?

No. ESTAs cannot be renewed. If your ESTA expires, you must apply for a new ESTA online before traveling again.

Is an ESTA the Same as a U.S. Visa?

No. An ESTA is not a visa. If you do not qualify for an ESTA, you must apply for a U.S. visa instead.

Apply for Your ESTA Today!

Don’t wait until the last minute—apply for an ESTA today to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to the United States.

CLICK HERE to Apply for Visa Online!