If you're planning to visit the United States for tourism, business, or transit, and you're from a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you'll need to complete an ESTA application to America. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows citizens from eligible countries to travel to the United States without needing to apply for a traditional visa. This article will guide you through the entire process, from understanding ESTA to successfully submitting your application and preparing for your journey.
What is ESTA?
The ESTA application to America is an online process that determines whether you qualify to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, and it’s required for all citizens of VWP countries who plan to visit the US for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days.
When you apply for ESTA, you’re essentially asking for permission to board a plane to the US. Although ESTA approval does not guarantee entry into the country (final decisions are made by US immigration officers upon arrival), it is a mandatory step to be eligible for entry without a visa.
Who Needs to Apply for ESTA?
If you're a citizen of a VWP country and are traveling to the United States for tourism, business, or transit, you’ll need to submit an ESTA application to America. Currently, 40 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program.
Before applying for ESTA, make sure you meet the following basic criteria:
You must be a citizen of one of the Visa Waiver Program countries.
Your trip must be for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
You plan to stay in the US for 90 days or less.
You have a valid passport issued by a VWP country.
You have a return ticket to your home country or onward travel outside of the US.
If you don’t meet these criteria, you'll need to apply for a US visa instead of ESTA.
How to Apply for ESTA to America: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for an ESTA to America is simple and can be done entirely online. Here's a detailed guide on how to complete your ESTA application:
Step 1: Visit the Official ESTA Website
Go to the official ESTA application website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. This is the only official platform where you can apply for ESTA to America. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge additional fees for the service.
Step 2: Start Your Application
On the homepage, click the "Apply for ESTA" button. You’ll be prompted to choose whether you want to apply as an individual or a group. Most travelers will choose the individual option, but if you're traveling with a family or a group, you can apply for everyone at once.
Step 3: Fill in Personal and Travel Information
Now, you'll need to provide your personal details:
Full name (as it appears on your passport)
Date of birth
Gender
Country of citizenship
Passport information (passport number, issue country, and expiration date)
Additionally, you'll be asked to provide your travel plans. If you're already booked for your flight, you can enter your airline and flight number. If not, you can provide your first night’s address in the US (a hotel, friend, or family member's address).
Step 4: Answer Eligibility and Security Questions
The ESTA application to America will ask several important questions regarding your eligibility and security. Some common questions include:
Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
Have you ever been denied entry into the US?
Do you have any contagious diseases?
Are you associated with terrorist activities?
Answer these questions truthfully. Providing false information could result in your ESTA application being denied, or worse, being barred from entry to the US.
Step 5: Review and Confirm Your Application
Before submitting, double-check all the details you’ve entered. Errors in your personal or passport information could cause delays or lead to a rejection of your ESTA application. Once everything looks correct, confirm the information.
Step 6: Pay the ESTA Fee
The ESTA fee is $21 as of now. You can pay the fee using a credit card or other available methods on the official website. Payment must be completed for your application to be processed.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
Once you've paid, submit your ESTA application. In most cases, you’ll receive an immediate response, either approving or denying your ESTA. If you are approved, the authorization will be electronically linked to your passport.
Step 8: Check Your ESTA Status
While most applications are processed quickly, you should still check your ESTA status. You can do so on the official ESTA website. It’s a good idea to print out your ESTA approval, although it’s not necessary to show it when boarding the flight.
What Happens After You Apply for ESTA?
Once your ESTA application to America is approved, it will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple trips to the US without needing to apply for a new ESTA for each visit, as long as your travel is within the 90-day limit.
However, if there are any changes to your personal details or your circumstances (such as a new passport), you’ll need to apply for a new ESTA. Additionally, if you’re denied ESTA, you’ll be provided with a reason, and you may need to apply for a US visa instead.
Can You Travel to America Without ESTA?
It’s mandatory for all travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries to have an approved ESTA before they can board a flight to the United States. Without ESTA approval, airlines will not allow you to board the flight, and you may be turned away at the airport.
Apply for ESTA to America Online Today!
Now that you understand the importance of the ESTA application to America, it’s time to apply for your travel authorization. The process is simple, fast, and secure, and you can complete your application in just a few steps. Make sure to apply at least 72 hours before your departure to ensure everything is in order before your flight.
