About ESTA
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Travelers from VWP countries must use ESTA to apply for authorization for short-term tourist or business stays of up to 90 days.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is the official online portal managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for travelers seeking to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It is not a visa, but a required pre-travel authorization for citizens of designated VWP countries planning short-term tourist or business visits of up to 90 days. The system is designed to enhance security by pre-screening travelers before they board a carrier. The application process is conducted entirely online through the official ESTA website or mobile app, where applicants provide biographical information and answer eligibility questions. A fee of $21 USD is required per application, payable by credit card. While decisions are often provided within minutes, CBP recommends applying at least 72 hours before travel. An approved ESTA is valid for two years, or until the traveler's passport expires, and allows for multiple entries into the U.S. during its validity.
Pros & Cons
- Streamlines the travel authorization process for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries.
- Application processing is fast, with decisions often returned within minutes.
- The entire application can be completed online via web browser or a dedicated mobile app.
- Eliminates the need for a more complex and time-consuming visa application for short-term travel.
- The $21 USD application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
- An approved ESTA does not guarantee admission to the United States; the final decision rests with a CBP officer at the port of entry.
- The system is only for citizens of specific Visa Waiver Program countries; others must apply for a visa.
- Applicants are vulnerable to unofficial third-party websites that charge excessive fees for submitting an ESTA application.
- Significant errors on a submitted application cannot be corrected, requiring a new application and fee.
Features
Key features
Provides full application and status check functionality on iOS and Android devices.
Streamlines short-term entry to the United States for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries without needing a traditional visitor's visa.
Grants travel authorization for up to 90 days for both business or leisure/pleasure visits.
Supports single-applicant entry or coordinated submissions for a group of two or more travelers simultaneously.
Guides users sequentially through disclaimers, applicant bio-data, personal contact information, U.S. travel destination details, eligibility vetting questionnaires, final review, and payment processing.
Additional features
The website and application are available in over 20 languages to support international users.
An extensive help section provides answers to common questions about the ESTA process, eligibility, and the Visa Waiver Program.
An approved ESTA is typically valid for up to two years, allowing for multiple visits to the U.S. without reapplying before it or the passport expires.
Pricing
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Interface languages
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About ESTA
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Travelers from VWP countries must use ESTA to apply for authorization for short-term tourist or business stays of up to 90 days.
ESTA Details
ESTA's In-App Market Place
Does ESTA have an in-app market place?
Yes
How many Mini-Apps in the marketplace?
0
Mini Apps
Pricing Options
Accepted Payment Currencies
USD
Pros & Cons
- Streamlines the travel authorization process for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries.
- Application processing is fast, with decisions often returned within minutes.
- The entire application can be completed online via web browser or a dedicated mobile app.
- Eliminates the need for a more complex and time-consuming visa application for short-term travel.
- The $21 USD application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
- An approved ESTA does not guarantee admission to the United States; the final decision rests with a CBP officer at the port of entry.
- The system is only for citizens of specific Visa Waiver Program countries; others must apply for a visa.
- Applicants are vulnerable to unofficial third-party websites that charge excessive fees for submitting an ESTA application.
- Significant errors on a submitted application cannot be corrected, requiring a new application and fee.
ESTA's Support Options
Email Address
info@usvisatravelpass.comContact
1-202-325-8000ESTA's Alternatives
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