How to Complete Your ESTA Application
Applying for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a straightforward process — but small mistakes can lead to delays or denials. This guide walks you through every step so you can submit your application with confidence.
Before You Begin: What You'll Need
Gather the following items before starting your application:
- A valid e-Passport (with an electronic chip) from a Visa Waiver Program country
- Your passport number, issue date, and expiry date
- A valid email address
- A credit or debit card for the $21 USD application fee
- Your travel itinerary (if available, though not required)
- U.S. point of contact information (a hotel address or friend/family member in the U.S.)
Step 1: Access the Official ESTA Website
Always apply through the official U.S. government ESTA portal at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge additional fees on top of the government fee. While some authorized travel agencies assist with applications, the official site is always the most reliable option.
Step 2: Create a New Application
On the ESTA homepage, select "New Application". You'll be asked whether you are applying for yourself or on behalf of a group. Individual applicants should select the single-applicant option. Group applications are available for families or travel groups applying together.
Step 3: Enter Personal Information
Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport:
- Full legal name (surname and given names)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Country of citizenship and country of birth
- City of birth
Important: Even minor discrepancies between your ESTA and passport information can cause issues at the border. Double-check every field.
Step 4: Enter Passport Information
You'll need to provide your passport details:
- Passport number
- Country of issuance
- Issue and expiry dates
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your trip. Some ESTA applications may be rejected if your passport expires soon, even if ESTA itself remains valid for two years.
Step 5: Answer the Eligibility Questions
The application includes a series of yes/no questions covering:
- Physical or mental health conditions
- Prior criminal history or arrests
- Terrorism or security-related background
- Prior immigration violations or deportations from the U.S.
- Whether you have previously been denied a U.S. visa
Answer all questions honestly. Providing false information is a federal offense and can result in permanent inadmissibility to the United States.
Step 6: Review and Submit
Before paying, review every section of your application carefully. Once submitted, only limited changes (such as your email or travel itinerary) can be made — personal information cannot be amended without starting a new application.
Step 7: Pay the Application Fee
The ESTA application fee is $21 USD, payable by major credit or debit card. Of this, $4 covers processing and $17 is the travel promotion fee. Applications that are denied are still charged $4 for the processing cost.
Step 8: Await Your Authorization
Most ESTA decisions are made within minutes, but the U.S. government recommends applying at least 72 hours before travel. You'll receive one of three responses:
- Authorization Approved — You may travel under the Visa Waiver Program
- Travel Not Authorized — You must apply for a U.S. visa instead
- Authorization Pending — Check back within 72 hours for a final decision
How Long Is ESTA Valid?
An approved ESTA is valid for two years from the date of authorization, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. During that period, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. without reapplying, as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days.