Learn all about ESTA - the electronic authorization to enter the United States for citizens of countries participating in the visa waiver program. How to apply, what documents are required, who is eligible for ESTA and what you need to know before traveling

If you're planning a short trip to the United States for tourism, business, or transit, and you're a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, you may not need a traditional visa. Instead, you can apply for an ESTA — an electronic travel authorization that simplifies entry into the U.S. This guide explains what ESTA is, who needs it, how to apply, and what to expect during the process.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during your trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

Buy a reliable travel insurance policy from trusted insurance agents on the Visit World portal!

What Is ESTA?

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It’s not a visa, but an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It allows eligible travelers to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

The ESTA is linked electronically to your passport and is valid for two years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first). Within this period, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. without reapplying, as long as each stay is under 90 days.

Who needs an ESTA?

You need an ESTA if:

1. You are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program (for example, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, France, South Korea, Australia - currently over 40 countries are on the list).

2. You are traveling to the United States for tourism, business, medical purposes, or transit.

3. Your stay will be 90 days or less.

4. You are arriving by air or sea (for land arrivals from Canada or Mexico, an ESTA is not required, but a different form may be required).

Note: If you plan to work, study, immigrate, or stay longer than 90 days, you need a traditional visa, not an ESTA.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step ESTA Application Process

Applying for ESTA is simple and entirely online:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the official ESTA portal: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Step 2: Fill Out the Application

Provide personal details such as:

- Full name

- Date and place of birth

- Passport information

- Contact information

- Travel details

- Employment history

Answer eligibility/security questions (e.g., criminal record, health, travel history)

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The cost is $21 USD (as of 2025). Payment can be made via credit/debit card or PayPal.

Step 4: Submit and Wait for Approval

Most applicants receive approval within minutes. However, it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours before travel.

Step 5: Check ESTA Status and Save It

You don’t need to print the ESTA, but it’s wise to keep a digital or paper copy for your records.

What Documents Are Needed?

To apply for ESTA, you need:

- A valid biometric passport from a VWP country (must be valid for the duration of your stay).

- A credit or debit card to pay the fee.

- Contact and travel information.

- Optional: your U.S. address (hotel, friend/family, etc.).

Important Tips and Warnings

1. Apply early – preferably a week or more before travel in case of delays.

2. Double-check passport details – errors can lead to denial or entry refusal.

3. ESTA is not a visa – it does not guarantee entry; final decision rests with U.S. Customs & Border Protection at the port of entry.

4. If your passport changes, you must apply for a new ESTA.

5. Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in serious immigration consequences.

6. If you’ve visited certain countries (e.g., Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea) since 2011, you may not be eligible for ESTA and must apply for a visa.

Who is not eligible for ESTA?

You are not eligible for ESTA if:

- You are not a citizen of a country with a visa waiver.

- You have previously been denied a U.S. visa.

- You have a criminal record or previous immigration violations.

- You have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, North Korea, or Cuba or were there after March 1, 2011 (some exceptions apply).

- You plan to study, work, or live in the United States.

ESTA offers a simplified way for travelers from eligible countries to visit the United States for short trips. It is easy, fast, and much more convenient than applying for a visa, but it comes with strict requirements. Always make sure you understand the rules before you travel and apply in advance.

Need help applying for ESTA? Contact an immigration consultant or authorized travel agent to make sure your form is filled out correctly and your trip will go smoothly.

Reminder! What mistakes most often lead to a US visa refusal? In this article, we will tell you how to correctly fill out the DS-160 form, what points cause suspicion in the consulates, and why it is important to be honest and detailed. We have already told you how to increase your chances of obtaining a US visa in 2025.

---

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

---

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.