ESTA Travel Authorization for Visa Waiver Program Travelers
Since 2009, all travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—including minors—must obtain ESTA travel authorization. ESTA, short for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is an automated system designed to confirm whether a traveler is eligible to enter the U.S. and whether they may pose a security risk before boarding a U.S.-bound flight.
This requirement was implemented through amendments to Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to strengthen the Visa Waiver Program and enhance border security. Importantly, ESTA is not a visa. Approval of ESTA does not replace a U.S. visa for those who require one. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), travelers holding a valid visa are not required to apply for ESTA.
Who Needs ESTA Travel Authorization?
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to visit the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. However, they must first secure ESTA approval. As of today, there are 40 participating VWP countries.
You should apply for ESTA if you are:
- A citizen or national of a Visa Waiver Program country
- Traveling without a visitor’s visa
- Planning a trip of 90 days or less
- Visiting the U.S. for business or pleasure
- Submitting a new ESTA application, whether for yourself or as part of a group of two or more people
Visa Waiver Program Participating Countries
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) uses ESTA to review travelers from these countries before departure. This screening process helps identify potential risks while preserving the benefits of visa-free travel. As DHS has stated, “ESTA counterbalances vulnerabilities inherent in visa-free travel by adding a layer of advance scrutiny.”
E-Passport Requirement
Since April 1, 2016, all Visa Waiver Program travelers must use an e-Passport when applying for ESTA. An e-Passport is a secure, electronically enhanced passport with an embedded chip that stores biometric data. These passports are issued by government authorities and must comply with international security standards.
Information Required for an ESTA Application
When applying for ESTA, have the following details ready:
- Valid passport from a VWP country
- Email address, home address, and phone number
- Emergency contact information (email and phone)
- Any aliases, national ID, or personal ID number (if applicable)
- Employer’s address and phone number (if applicable)
- U.S. point of contact details (if applicable)
- Valid payment method for the $14 application fee
Frequently Asked Questions About ESTA
Who needs ESTA authorization?
All citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries traveling to the U.S. (including Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands) for business or leisure must apply for ESTA.
How much does it cost?
The ESTA application fee is $14, payable by credit card (MasterCard, VISA, American Express, Discover) or PayPal.
Do children need ESTA?
Yes. Every traveler, including infants and minors, must have their own approved ESTA.
Do I need ESTA if just transiting through the U.S.?
Yes. Even if the U.S. is not your final destination, you must apply for ESTA. In your application, list your U.S. address as “in transit.”
How long can I stay in the U.S. with ESTA?
ESTA approval permits visits of up to 90 days.
What is the difference between ESTA and a visa?
ESTA is not a visa. It is a streamlined travel authorization for citizens of VWP countries. A visa involves a more extensive application process and is required for stays longer than 90 days or for purposes outside business or tourism.
When should I apply for ESTA?
Apply as soon as you begin planning your trip. CBP recommends applying at least 72 hours before departure.
How long does ESTA approval take?
Most applicants receive a response within 72 hours.
What happens if I don’t apply for ESTA?
You may be denied boarding your flight or refused entry into the U.S.
Where do I apply for ESTA?
Apply directly through the official ESTA website. Follow the prompts, provide accurate details, and submit your payment.
Do I need to print my approval?
It is not required, as DHS communicates ESTA status directly to the airline. However, keeping your application number is recommended.
Is my personal data safe?
Yes. All information submitted is protected under U.S. privacy laws, including the Federal Information Security Management Act. ESTA records remain active for two years or until your passport expires. After expiration, DHS retains data for one year, then archives it for 12 years for retrieval purposes.
What if I need help applying?
You may call the CBP Info Center at (202) 325-8000 or 1-877-227-5511 for general questions. For denied applications or case-specific issues, you must file a request with the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program.
Why Work With Green Card Link?
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys are experienced in helping travelers and families navigate U.S. immigration requirements. While ESTA is generally straightforward, understanding the distinctions between ESTA, visas, and lawful entry is crucial to avoiding costly mistakes or travel disruptions. Green Card Link provides professional guidance to ensure your application is accurate and compliant with all U.S. immigration rules.