Fast, secure, and hassle-free travel to the United States. Get your ESTA approval in 72 hours or less.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is your digital gateway to the United States
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). Mandated by the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, ESTA enhances security while facilitating legitimate travel.
ESTA is not a visa. It is an authorization to travel to the United States without a visa for tourism, business, or transit purposes for stays of 90 days or less.
Most applications are approved within minutes, with all decisions made within 72 hours.
State-of-the-art security measures protect your personal information throughout the process.
Once approved, your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires.
If you plan to work, study for more than 90 days, or stay longer than 90 days, you need a visa instead of ESTA.
Citizens from these 42 countries can apply for ESTA
Simple 8-step process to get your travel authorization
Apply at least 72 hours before your departure, though it's recommended to apply as soon as you know your travel dates to avoid any last-minute issues.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Period | 2 years from approval date or until passport expires (whichever comes first) |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days per visit |
| Multiple Entries | Yes, unlimited entries during validity period |
| Processing Time | Usually within 72 hours (often much faster) |
| Application Fee | $21 USD (as of 2024) |
| Extension | Cannot be extended once in the U.S. |
Understanding the key differences
| Aspect | ESTA | U.S. Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Online only, no interview | Interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate required |
| Processing Time | Up to 72 hours | Several weeks to months |
| Cost | $21 | $160+ (depending on visa type) |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days | Varies by visa type |
| Work Permission | No | Depends on visa type |
| Validity | 2 years | Varies (up to 10 years for some visas) |
No, ESTA does not permit employment in the United States. If you plan to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa such as H-1B, L-1, or other employment-based visas.
No, ESTA authorizations cannot be extended. You must leave the U.S. before your 90 days expire. Overstaying can result in serious consequences including future travel restrictions.
Yes, every traveler regardless of age, including infants and children, needs their own ESTA approval. Parents or guardians can apply on behalf of minors.
You can reapply if your circumstances have changed. However, if your situation hasn't changed, you should apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate instead.
No, ESTA only authorizes travel to a U.S. port of entry. The final admission decision is made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers upon your arrival.
If your passport expires, your ESTA becomes invalid even if it hasn't reached its 2-year expiration date. You must apply for a new ESTA with your new passport information.
You must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy for guidance on the visa application process.
Start your application now and get approved within 72 hours. Only use the official U.S. government website.
Apply on Official Website →Many third-party websites charge excessive fees for ESTA applications. The official government fee is only $21. Always use esta.cbp.dhs.gov for applications.