India Visa
Turkey Visa
United States Visa
Australia Visa
Colombia Visa
New Zealand Visa
China Visa
Egypt Visa
Vietnam Visa
Indonesia Visa
Article
United States
78,500+ Travel Documents processed by iVisa
How to Apply: ESTA
01
Fill out online application
Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal
02
Receive document via email
No need to deal with the embassy. We do it for you so you don't lose valuable time
03
Enter destination
Present your Passport and the Document we provide upon entry to destination country
How to Apply: Embassy Registration
01
Fill Out Online Application
Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal
02
Travel Safely
Your embassy will assist you if an emergency (eg. Natural disasters, civil unrest, etc) occur
Why Register with the Embassy
Travel Registration is a service provided by the government. This service allows you to record information about your
upcoming trip abroad to the Department of State so it can be used to assist you in case of an emergency. People residing abroad can also get routine
information from their nearest embassy or consulate if registered.
Required Information to Apply
Once You Have Registered With Your Embassy Or Consulate, You Will Need To Update Your Data If:
- your contact details change,
- your civil status changes,
- you are going back to your home country.
Learn More: ESTA
What you need to know
-
Under the visa waiver program, many nationalities can apply for the ESTA if they intend to enter the United States by air, sea, or land
-
Travelers must obtain a new ESTA authorization if they are issued with a new passport or change their name, gender, or country of citizenship
Apply for your United States ESTA online today with us!
Last updated: March 2024
Embark on an unforgettable American adventure with the United States ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
Our user-friendly platform, the iVisa app, and dedicated assistance ensure that your American dream is just a few clicks away.
What is the United States ESTA?
The United States ESTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible travelers to visit the United States without a visa.
Visa-exempt travelers to the US can use this permit instead of a visa. It's easier and quicker to apply for than a regular B1/B2 (tourist) visa and helps the United States government strengthen border security.
What can you do with the United States ESTA?
This document allows you to visit the country for tourism, transit, and business.
What can you not do with the United States ESTA?
You can't use the United States electronic travel authorization to live, study, and/or work in the country.
Who is eligible to apply for the United States ESTA?
You must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the United States ESTA:
-
You're traveling with a passport from one of the foreign countries on the Visa Waiver program list
-
Applicants must have an e-passport, which includes an embedded electronic chip
While an approved ESTA is required, it doesn't guarantee entry. US Customs and Border Protection officers decide at the point of entry, and you can still be refused admission based on various factors, such as security reasons.
Who requires the United States ESTA?
Check the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) list to find out if you require an ESTA, or use our handy Visa Checker and apply online today!
Who doesn't need to apply for the United States ESTA?
Those who require a visa for the United States instead, or those with permission to study, work, or live in the US, don't need the United States ESTA to enter the country.
However, please note they may need another document to enter.
Traveling to the United States with children and minors
Children under 18 years old from eligible countries need to register their own United States ESTA visa waiver.
Parents or legal guardians can register on their behalf. Simply apply as a family by clicking 'add another person' during the online process on our platform.
How long is the United States ESTA valid?
Once your ESTA is issued, it's valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires), and you can travel to the United States on multiple trips.
Please note: For Brunei or Hungary passport holders, the US travel authorization ESTA is valid for up to 1 year from the date of issuance.
Having an ESTA authorization does not mean you may stay in the US for two years. It only allows you to stay in the US for up to 90 days per visit.
Can I extend the United States ESTA?
The ESTA isn't extendable. After the expiration date, you must apply for a new one. Luckily, applying online with us or through the government website is easy and quick.
How to check the status of your ESTA visa waiver
If it's been a while since you last registered, and you're unsure if your ESTA still valid, you can check your ESTA status on the United States government ESTA website.
Simply enter your passport number and other details and click 'Retrieve application'.
United States ESTA: Required documents to apply
You don't need many documents to apply for the US ESTA:
- Copy of your valid passport. Make sure it's valid for your entire stay in the United States and has a digital chip containing your biometric info (e-passport or enhanced secure passport)
How to apply for the United States ESTA online
To get your United States ESTA online with us, just follow the three simple steps below:
-
Step 1: Complete our simplified application form with your travel and passport details. Please look over all your application information carefully before continuing.
-
Step 2: Then, choose your preferred processing time and pay the processing fees. You can pay securely online with a credit/debit card, Venmo, or PayPal.
-
Step 3: Receive your United States ESTA via email within the chosen timeframe, and prepare to travel!
You can simply enter the country with your passport, as the ESTA is linked electronically. However, we recommend keeping an electronic and printed copy of the ESTA approval confirmation on hand just in case.
United States ESTA costs and processing times
The government fee for the United States ESTA is USD $21.00.
When applying with us, you can choose from three different processing times:
-
Standard - 2 days: Price per applicant is USD $120.99.
-
Rush - 24 hours: Price per applicant is USD $134.99.
-
Super rush - 12 hours: Price per applicant is USD $145.99.
These prices include the government fee for your convenience.
Do I need the United States ESTA to transit through the country?
Yes, you also need to register for a valid ESTA if you're just transiting in the country, even when you're not leaving the transit area at the airport.
United States entry requirements and restrictions
Venturing into the United States? It's essential to stay updated on the latest entry requirements and restrictions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey:
-
COVID-19: Keep an eye on the current COVID-19-related guidelines via your airline or the United States government website.
-
Customs and border control: Be prepared for customs inspections and questioning by border control officers. Carry relevant documentation like return tickets and make sure you can prove that you have enough funds to pay for your entire trip.
Where can I learn more about the United States ESTA?
In case you have questions about the United States ESTA or any other travel document, you can reach out to our outstanding customer support team online or WhatsApp.
Ask iVisa
Have a visa question? we'll provide the answer.
Anita S
UKJuly 9 2024
I’ve traveled to the US two years ago with a visa because I didn’t know much about an ESTA, but now I’m looking into getting one for my next trip in a couple of weeks. Can I use the ESTA this time around, or does my previous visa complicate things?
iVisa
October 3 2024
Yes, you can. Having previously traveled to the US with a visa does not complicate your ability to use an ESTA for future visits. As long as you’re a citizen of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—like the United Kingdom—and you meet all other requirements, you can apply for an ESTA. Previous visa use is separate and doesn't affect your eligibility for an ESTA.
Paul N
AustraliaJuly 17 2024
My passport had two months left on it and I decided to renew it before my US trip at the end of this month. The thing is, I still had a valid ESTA with my old passport. Now that I have a new one, do I need to reapply for another ESTA with my new passport? Or can the old one be transferred to the new one?
iVisa
October 3 2024
If you have renewed your passport, you will need to apply for a new ESTA. ESTAs are electronically linked to the specific passport used during the application. Since you have a new passport, the old ESTA cannot be transferred to it. You should reapply for an ESTA using your new passport details.
Henry G
GermanyJuly 25 2024
I’ve got a business trip lined up to the USA in August. But I’m a bit worried because since the last time I was there, I got into some trouble and I now have a criminal record (it’s a misdemeanor but I still have a record). Will this affect my chances of getting my ESTA approved?
iVisa
October 3 2024
It might. Having a criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, may affect your eligibility for an ESTA. During the ESTA application process, you will be asked about any violations of law. A criminal record could require you to apply for a visa instead, as an ESTA is typically only for those without such records. In cases where you're unsure, applying for a visa might be advisable as it involves a more thorough evaluation process that considers individual circumstances.
Questions?
How many times can I use an ESTA?
Anita S, UK | July 9, 2024
I’ve traveled to the US two years ago with a visa because I didn’t know much about an ESTA, but now I’m looking into getting one for my next trip in a couple of weeks. Can I use the ESTA this time around, or does my previous visa complicate things?
Martin, iVisa | July 11, 2024
Yes, you can. Having previously traveled to the US with a visa does not complicate your ability to use an ESTA for future visits. As long as you’re a citizen of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—like the United Kingdom—and you meet all other requirements, you can apply for an ESTA. Previous visa use is separate and doesn't affect your eligibility for an ESTA.
I have new passport. Do I need to reapply?
Paul N, Australia | July 17, 2024
My passport had two months left on it and I decided to renew it before my US trip at the end of this month. The thing is, I still had a valid ESTA with my old passport. Now that I have a new one, do I need to reapply for another ESTA with my new passport? Or can the old one be transferred to the new one?
Martin, iVisa | July 19, 2024
If you have renewed your passport, you will need to apply for a new ESTA. ESTAs are electronically linked to the specific passport used during the application. Since you have a new passport, the old ESTA cannot be transferred to it. You should reapply for an ESTA using your new passport details.
Willl a criminal record affect my ESTA application?
Henry G, Germany | July 25, 2024
I’ve got a business trip lined up to the USA in August. But I’m a bit worried because since the last time I was there, I got into some trouble and I now have a criminal record (it’s a misdemeanor but I still have a record). Will this affect my chances of getting my ESTA approved?
Cami, iVisa | July 29, 2024
It might. Having a criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, may affect your eligibility for an ESTA. During the ESTA application process, you will be asked about any violations of law. A criminal record could require you to apply for a visa instead, as an ESTA is typically only for those without such records. In cases where you're unsure, applying for a visa might be advisable as it involves a more thorough evaluation process that considers individual circumstances.
How do I correct a mistake on my application?
You should contact our customer support team as soon as possible, so they can help you solve the problem. Remember, your application will always be reviewed by our experts, so you can count on our team to notify you if something is missing before submission.
I have a valid visa. Am I required to apply for ESTA?
No. This document is designed to allow qualifying nationalities to travel to the US without obtaining a US visa. So if you have a visa, you don’t need an ESTA.
It is less than 72 hours before my flight to the United States. I just found out about the ESTA application. What can I do?
You can get your ESTA in just a few hours when applying through us. We offer different processing times, so you can choose the option that suits you best and allows you to receive the document in time for your trip.
If a traveler has received approval through ESTA to travel to the United States, does that mean that they are guaranteed entry to the country?
The ESTA allows the passenger to travel to the US, but this travel authorization does not guarantee admission into the territory. The Customs and Border Protection officer at the border or airport will decide whether to permit entry.
My application couldn’t be completed due to an error. What now?
No worries. Contact our customer team as soon as possible; they will be happy to help you resolve the problem.
My ESTA has been denied. Am I required to apply for a visa?
Yes, if the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) has been denied, you must apply for a visa.
Where can I read more?
- US B1/B2 Visa fees for Indian citizen
- US B1/B2 Tourist Visa fee: Complete guide
- Understanding US 10-year visa rules: A comprehensive guide
- B1 B2 visa interview frequently asked questions in 2024
- Complete guide to B1 B2 multiple entry visa FAQs in 2024
- Understanding US tourist visa duration: A complete 2024 guide
- United States visa for Spanish citizens
- DS 160 Form Fee: Application, processing, and status check
- US tourist visa validity
- Complete guide to USA visa renewal B1/B2 in Nigeria (2024)
- See All
