United States ESTA – Apply Online
The US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required for all Visa Waiver Program (VWP) citizens traveling to the United States. Valid for 2 years with multiple entries, up to 90 days per stay.
What is the US ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It is electronically linked to your passport and valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries to the US with each stay of up to 90 days.
Important: An approved ESTA does NOT guarantee entry into the United States. Final admission is at the discretion of US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry.
Who Needs a US ESTA?
The ESTA is required for:
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries traveling to the US for tourism, business, or transit
Travelers transiting through US airports on their way to another country
VWP citizens planning short trips of 90 days or less for pleasure or business
Who Does NOT Need an ESTA:
- US citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders) do not need an ESTA
- Travelers with a valid US visa do not need an ESTA
- Citizens of non-VWP countries must apply for a standard US visa (B1/B2)
ESTA-Eligible Countries (Visa Waiver Program)
Citizens of the following countries may apply for an ESTA to travel to the United States without a visa:
Note: Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, or who are dual nationals of those countries, are not eligible for the VWP and must apply for a visa.
ESTA – Entry Purposes
The US ESTA covers several types of visits under the Visa Waiver Program
Tourism & Leisure
Holidays, sightseeing, visiting friends or family in the US. Each stay up to 90 days.
Business Travel
Attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. Not valid for working or being employed in the US.
Transit
Traveling through the US en route to another country. ESTA required for transit through US airports.
Medical Treatment
Short-term medical visits of 90 days or less. A longer stay requires a separate visa.
How to Apply for a US ESTA
Follow these simple steps to complete your ESTA application
Complete the Online Form
Fill in your personal details, passport information, travel purpose, and answer eligibility questions accurately
Review & Submit
Review all information carefully. Upload any required documents and submit your application
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the ESTA fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable
Receive Your ESTA
Most ESTAs are approved within minutes to 24 hours. You will receive your ESTA approval by email
Required Documents
Prepare the following before starting your ESTA application
ESTA Fee & Validity
Validity Period
The US ESTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries to the United States with each stay of up to 90 days.
Note: The ESTA fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you choose not to travel.
Important Information
You must apply for an ESTA before boarding a US-bound flight or cruise. Airlines are required to verify your ESTA status before allowing you to board.
Apply at least 72 hours before your departure, although most approvals come within minutes to a few hours.
An ESTA is NOT valid for employment, study, or stays exceeding 90 days. A separate US visa is required for those purposes.
Each traveler, including infants and children, must have their own individual ESTA linked to their own passport.
If you receive a new passport, you must apply for a new ESTA — the old one becomes invalid.
Our US ESTA Assistance Service
While you can apply directly on the official US government website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov), we offer professional assistance for travelers who prefer support in their own language.
Our US ESTA Assistance Service Includes:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an ESTA?
Most ESTA applications are approved within minutes to a few hours. In some cases it may take up to 72 hours. We recommend applying at least 72 hours before your travel date.
Can I work in the US with an ESTA?
No. The ESTA is only valid for tourism, business meetings, transit, and short medical visits (90 days or less). You cannot take up employment in the US on an ESTA. A work visa is required.
Can I study in the US with an ESTA?
Only for very short recreational study courses. For any formal academic study, a US student visa (F-1 or M-1) is required.
Do I need to print my ESTA?
No. Your ESTA is linked electronically to your passport. Simply present your passport at check-in. However, we recommend saving your approval email for your records.
What if my ESTA application is denied?
If your ESTA is denied, you will need to apply for a US B1/B2 visitor visa at a US Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Can I extend my stay in the US on an ESTA?
No. ESTA visits are strictly limited to 90 days. You cannot extend an ESTA stay. To stay longer, you must apply for an appropriate US visa before your trip.
Disclaimer: This is a private third-party service not affiliated with or endorsed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or any US government agency. For official ESTA applications, visit esta.cbp.dhs.gov