United States Application

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US ESTA Online

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USA ESTA Information

The USA ESTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt visitors. Travelers of certain nationalities need to register online to have their trip to the United States authorized.

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It was introduced in 2009 by the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

The ESTA application form is available for citizens of eligible countries traveling to the United States for tourism, transit, and business purposes.

The ESTA USA is valid for a total of 2 years from the date of issue, and allows multiple entries for a maximum stay of 90 days each time.

Eligible travelers are required to complete the simple ESTA application form online.  The form only takes a few minutes to complete with personal and passport information.

Applicants must also answer a few simple questions related to security and health. The ESTA allows the US Department of Homeland Security to pre-screen passengers before traveling.

It is recommended to apply for ESTA when you book your travel to the USA but not less than 72 hours before your departure.

Those eligible to apply for the ESTA Travel Authorization for the United States are able to travel to the United States on short notice. This avoids having to go through the trouble of applying for a traditional visa at an embassy or consulate.

Foreign nationals traveling to the USA for other purposes, such as to work or study, are required to contact a United States Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence.

Highlights Icon
Highlights
Multiple-entry travel authorization
Stay for 90 days with each entry
Valid for 2 years from issue
Valid for entry by air, land or sea
Electronically linked to the passport upon approval
For purposes of tourism, business, or transit
What do I need?
Add passport info

Valid passport

Credit/Debit Card

Valid debit/credit card details

email address

Current email

ESTA for the USA Requirements

To apply for an ESTA for the United States, visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program must meet certain requirements.

Visitors simply need the following items to successfully register with the ESTA:

  • Valid passport from one of the ESTA eligible countries
  • Valid credit or debit card to pay the fee
  • Current email address
  • Home address and phone number
  • Emergency contact’s phone and email is optional

In rare cases, the border control might ask further questions to support the ESTA documents required, such as the accommodation address.

Countries Eligible for United States

Citizens from the countries listed below are eligible to apply online to enter United States

Countries Eligible for United States

How to complete the online application for the ESTA ?

You can complete the US ESTA application in just a few minutes by providing basic personal, passport, and travel information, and answering a few security and health-related questions.

It is also necessary to pay the ESTA fee before submitting the form. We advise you to double-check all the details provided are correct to avoid any unnecessary delays.

How to confirm payment for the US ESTA ?

To pay the US ESTA processing fee, it is necessary to have a valid credit or debit card, as other payment methods are not accepted for the online application.

After entering all of the necessary information on the form, you will be prompted to enter your card details and confirm the payment to submit the ESTA application for processing.

How do I receive my approved ESTA for the USA ?

Once approved, a US ESTA is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport. You must present your passport to board transportation for the US and to enter the United States at border checkpoints.

Although in some cases it may take up to 72 hours, an ESTA authorization is usually approved within 24 hours of the application being submitted.

ESTA US Processing time
1 to 2 days
US government fee
21 usd
Our service fee
74 usd
TOTAL
95 usd
The total amount depends on several parameters as: goverment fee and additional services.
Optional services:
Embassy Registration
Service fee includes
Fast processing timeFast processing time
Application reviewExpert application review
Online supportOnline support 365 days a year
High success rate99% application success rate
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This content has been reviewed by

Ekaterina Powell

Ekaterina Powell

US Immigration Attorney

Ekaterina Powell is a U.S. attorney licensed in the State of California, working in the area of U.S. immigration law for over 12 years. She has been featured as one of the top immigration lawyers in her state and city several times and has contributed to notable industry publications.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

United States Visa FAQ

  • What is the ESTA visa for the USA ?

    ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It is an Electronic Travel Authorization which allows citizens from visa exempt countries to travel to the United States on short notice for tourism, transit, and business purposes.

  • How long is the USA ESTA Valid for?

    The USA ESTA is valid for 2 years, or until the passport used during the application expires. The ESTA allows multiple entries to the United States for a maximum duration of 90 days each time, during its validity.

  • How long can I stay in the United States?

    The ESTA allows visits of up to 90 days each visit. You can use the same ESTA to enter the United States multiple times, providing you do not stay for longer than 90 days.

  • Who is eligible for an ESTA for the United States?

    Applicants can check the countries eligible for the ESTA using the visa checker at the top of this page.

    The top visitors to United States with the ESTA come from the following countries:

    • United Kingdom
    • Japan
    • Germany
    • Slovenia
    • France
    • Australia
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Monaco
    • Sweden
    • Switzerland
    • Ireland
    • Taiwan
    • Denmark
    • New Zealand
    • Belgium
  • What are the restrictions of the USA ESTA visa?

    Restrictions of the ESTA Travel Authorization include not remaining in the country for periods exceeding 90 days, working with an ESTA for the USA and studying.

  • How much does the USA ESTA visa cost?

    The USA ESTA application fee is made up of a standard government charge and an additional service fee that covers the information, support, and assistance provided in completing the ESTA form.

  • What happens if my ESTA application is denied?

    If the US ESTA cannot be approved online because the US ESTA visa application is rejected, we recommend contacting the nearest United States Embassy or consulate.

  • How do I apply for an ESTA online?

    Applying for a USA ESTA online is fast and straightforward. Eligible citizens are required to complete a simple online application form with personal and passport information, answer a few simple health and security related questions, and pay the ESTA fee.

  • What do I need to complete an ESTA application?

    To complete an ESTA application, need a valid passport from an eligible country.

    US ESTA requirements also include having a valid credit or debit card to pay the ESTA fee, and providing a current email address.

  • How long will my USA ESTA take to process?

    The ESTA processing time usually takes up to 24 hours after submission. However, in some cases it may take up to 72 hours.

    It is recommended that applicants should apply at least 72 hours (3 days) before the intended date of entry to the United States

  • How can I apply for a USA ESTA for my children?

    Eligible citizens, including minors, are required to apply for a USA ESTA Travel Authorization. Children are required to have a valid ESTA when traveling to the United States.

  • I made a mistake on my ESTA application. How can I correct it?

    During the application process, it is essential to double-check all the information provided on the ESTA form to avoid any mistakes. The ESTA application cannot be corrected after submission to the Government of the USA.

  • What happens if my ESTA application is denied?

    In the rare event that an ESTA application is rejected, travelers will need to contact the American Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence for further information.

  • Do I need to apply for a USA ESTA if I already have a visa for the US?

    Applicants with a valid US visa are not required to apply for the ESTA Travel Authorization.

  • How can I renew my USA ESTA visa waiver?

    Renewing an ESTA Travel Authorization is simple and straightforward. To renew an ESTA visa waiver, it is necessary to submit a new application.

    Foreign citizens may apply for a new ESTA any time before or after the expiration date of their existing ESTA

  • Can I apply for a USA ESTA while in the USA?

    Eligible citizens are required to apply for an ESTA and receive approval before traveling to the United States.

    An ESTA cannot be renewed whilst in the United States. It is necessary to first leave the country and submit a new application.

  • How can I check the status of my ESTA application?

    Applicants can check the status of their ESTA application through the OnlineVisa Manager. You will receive all updates about the progress of your application via email.

Disclaimer
Handyvisas.com is not owned by, or affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, online agency that provides assistance in submitting applications for tourist visits to different countries around the world. Applications can also be made directly through government websites.