Official US ESTA Application: Everything You Need to Know

If you are planning to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you will need to complete the official US ESTA application. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system used to determine whether individuals from Visa Waiver Program countries are eligible to travel to the U.S. without a visa for business, tourism, or transit purposes. In this article, we will guide you through the official US ESTA application, what it involves, and how to complete it accurately.

What Is the Official US ESTA Application?

The official US ESTA application is an online form that travelers from eligible countries must complete before boarding a flight to the United States. The ESTA allows travelers to enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without the need for a visa. This includes travel for tourism, business, or short-term transit. It is essential to apply for ESTA well in advance of your travel date to ensure you are approved to enter the U.S.

The official US ESTA application is processed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The application involves answering a series of questions about your background, passport details, and the purpose of your visit. If you are approved, your ESTA authorization will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Where to Apply for the Official US ESTA Application?

It is crucial to apply for the official US ESTA application only through the official U.S. government website. The official ESTA website is the only trusted platform where you can submit your application safely. Beware of unofficial sites that charge additional fees or may not provide legitimate services.

The official ESTA application can be found at:

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/

Make sure you only use this site when applying for your ESTA to avoid potential scams.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the Official US ESTA Application

The process of completing the official US ESTA application is relatively simple and straightforward, but it’s important to provide accurate information to ensure your approval. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Access the Official ESTA Website:

   • Go to the official ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.
   • Click on “Apply for ESTA” to start your application.

2. Provide Your Passport Information:

   • You will need to provide your passport number, country of issue, and expiration date.
   • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of arrival in the U.S.

3. Enter Personal Information:

   • You will be asked to provide personal details, including your name, gender, date of birth, and nationality.

4. Travel Information:

   • You will need to answer questions about your travel plans, such as the reason for your visit (tourism, business, or transit) and your intended address in the U.S.

5. Answer Eligibility Questions:

   • The application will include a series of eligibility questions regarding your criminal history, past travel to the U.S., health status, and more.
   • Be honest when answering these questions. If you answer “yes” to any, you may not be eligible for ESTA and may need to apply for a U.S. visa instead.

6. Review and Submit Your Application:

   Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

   • After completing all sections, review your answers to ensure accuracy.
   • Once you’ve double-checked everything, submit your application. You will then be directed to a page confirming your submission.

7. Pay the ESTA Application Fee:

   • The ESTA application requires a fee for processing. Payment is made via credit card on the official website.
   • As of the latest update, the fee for an ESTA application is $21 USD.

8. Receive Your ESTA Status:

   • After submission and payment, your ESTA will be processed. In most cases, you will receive an answer within minutes. However, it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your departure in case there are any issues or delays.

What to Do After Submitting the Official US ESTA Application?

Once you’ve submitted the official US ESTA application, you will receive one of the following responses:

• Approved: If your ESTA is approved, you will be able to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Your ESTA will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• Denied: If your ESTA is denied, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You may receive guidance on what steps to take next.
• Pending: Sometimes, the ESTA system may require additional processing. If this happens, your application will be marked as “pending.” You will be notified of the final decision within 72 hours.

Common Issues with the Official US ESTA Application

Here are some common issues applicants face with the official US ESTA application:

• Incorrect Passport Details: Double-check your passport information, as entering the wrong passport number or expiration date can lead to a denied application.
• Missing Information: Ensure that all fields in the application are filled out accurately. Leaving sections blank can cause delays in processing.
• Failed Payment: If you encounter an issue with payment, make sure your credit card details are correct, and that you have sufficient funds to cover the application fee.
• Ineligibility for ESTA: If you are ineligible for ESTA (due to a past criminal conviction, prior visa denial, or other reasons), you may be required to apply for a U.S. visa instead.

How Long Is the Official US ESTA Application Valid?

Once approved, your ESTA authorization will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can travel to the U.S. multiple times without needing to reapply for a new ESTA, as long as your trip is for tourism, business, or transit and you do not exceed the 90-day limit for each stay.

However, if any of the information in your application changes (such as a change in your passport or a change in your answers to the eligibility questions), you may need to submit a new ESTA application.

Conclusion: The Official US ESTA Application

In conclusion, the official US ESTA application is an essential part of traveling to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. By carefully completing the online form with accurate information, paying the necessary fee, and submitting your application through the official U.S. government website, you ensure that your trip to the United States goes smoothly.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

If you're ready to apply for your official US ESTA application, make sure to visit the official website and follow the steps provided. Don't forget to apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any delays.

Call to Action: Apply for ESTA or a Visa Online Today!

Don’t wait until the last minute! Apply for your ESTA or U.S. visa online today and get your travel authorization sorted. Click the link below to begin your application:

CLICK HERE

Ensure your travel plans are in order by applying early and securing your ESTA or visa for the U.S.!

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Previous | Next