Embarking on a journey to the United States can be an exhilarating experience. The land of iconic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures offers an adventure for every traveler. Imagine strolling through the bustling streets of New York City, uncovering secrets of the movie world in Los Angeles, or experiencing the unique heritage of New Orleans. Before packing your bags, however, it’s crucial to ensure that your travel documents are in order, and for many, this includes obtaining an ESTA.
An Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, is a requirement for citizens of VWP countries planning a trip to the US. If you’re eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), the ESTA allows you to visit the US for tourism, business, transit, or medical reasons without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Let’s guide you through the ESTA application form process to make your dream trip a reality.
Understanding the ESTA for the United States
Before delving into the application details, let’s clarify what ESTA is. Created to improve security measures, ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It’s not a visa but works as a pre-authorization for travel, ensuring you meet specific requirements before you step on board your flight or ship to the US.
Are You Eligible for an ESTA?
To apply for an ESTA, you must be a citizen of a VWP country. These are countries that have an agreement with the US allowing their citizens to enter the States without a visa for short visits. Having a valid passport from a VWP country is another requirement, with at least six months left until its expiration date after your intended return from the US.
The ESTA Application Process
Applying for an ESTA is a straightforward process:
- Fill out our easy-to-use online application form. The application takes about 10 minutes. Make sure to have your passport handy.
- Submit & Pay for your application. We accept all payment types. PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay & Credit Card.
- Get your ESTA emailed to you within 72hrs. We’ll email you your approved travel authorization; and that’s it, you’re ready to go!
If you need your ESTA in a hurry, you can choose from our two expedited processing options. Simply select your add-on at checkout.
What Information Do You Need to Apply?
Filling out an ESTA form requires some basic information and documents:
- A valid electronic passport from a VWP country
- Your contact details
- Employment information, if applicable
- Other names/aliases or other citizenships
- Your most recent US visit details, if applicable
The questions are straightforward and designed to assess eligibility under the VWP criteria effectively. Make sure to answer all questions truthfully to avoid any potential complications.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once you submit your ESTA application and payment, it goes through a review process:
- Authorization Pending: Your application is under review, and a decision will generally be provided within 72 hours.
- Travel Authorized: Your ESTA is approved, and you’re cleared to travel to the US under the VWP.
- Travel Not Authorized: If your application is denied, you’ll need to apply for a visa through the US consulate or embassy.
FAQs about the ESTA
Travelers often have questions about the ESTA, and here are some answers to the most common queries:
How Long is ESTA Valid?
An approved ESTA is generally valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During that time, you may enter the United States multiple times without having to reapply for each visit.
What If My Passport Expires?
If your passport with which the ESTA was issued expires, your ESTA expires as well. You’ll need to obtain a new passport and then reapply for a new ESTA.
Does an ESTA Guarantee Entry?
No, an approved ESTA does not guarantee admission to the United States. Upon arrival, you’ll still be subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who make the final determination of entry.
Can You Extend Your ESTA?
Unfortunately, you cannot extend an ESTA. If your travel authorization is about to expire and you’re in the US, you must leave the country and re-enter if your circumstances require. Always plan accordingly to avoid overstaying.
Conclusion
Securing an ESTA is critical for a hassle-free entry to the US for citizens of VWP countries. By following the simple application process outlined above, you’ll be one step closer to an unforgettable travel experience. And remember, if you start planning your trip and realize you need an ESTA, our user-friendly service is here to assist you. Simply visit our website to apply here and embark on your American adventure with confidence.
