Embassy of the United States

Visas

ESTA, the  Electronic System for Travel Authorization

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a fully-automated, internet-based program for citizens and eligible nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to apply for advance authorization to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.   ESTA is also available in Dutch, French and German.

Since January 12, 2009, ESTA is mandatory for all VWP countries and VWP travelers are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S.  ESTA is also mandatory for VWP travelers transiting through the U.S. 

How the Electronic System for Travel Authorization Works

Log onto the ESTA Web site at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete an on-line application  Travelers are encouraged to apply early. The web-based system will prompt you to answer basic biographical and eligibility questions typically requested on a paper I-94W form. Please note that the paper I-94W form is still required.

Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, however, DHS recommends that applications be submitted no less than 72 hours prior to travel. In most cases you will receive a response within seconds:

1. Authorization Approved: Travel authorized.

2. Travel Not Authorized: Traveler must obtain a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before traveling to the U.S.

3. Authorization Pending: Traveler will need to check the ESTA Web site for updates within 72 hours to receive a final response.

An approved travel authorization via ESTA is:

• Required for all VWP travelers prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S. under the VWP beginning January 12, 2009;

• Valid, unless revoked, for up to two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first;

• Valid for multiple entries into the U.S. As future trips are planned, or if an applicant’s destination addresses or itineraries change after their authorization has been approved, they may easily update that information through the ESTA Web site; and

• Not a guarantee of admissibility to the United States at a port of entry. ESTA approval only authorizes a traveler to board a carrier for travel to the U.S. under the VWP. (For additional information, please visit "For International Visitors" at www.CBP.gov/travel .)

ESTA will enhance the security of the VWP and enable the United States to maintain and expand participation in the program.

After January 12, 2009, VWP travelers who do not apply for and receive travel authorization via ESTA prior to travel may be denied boarding, experience delayed processing or be denied admission at a U.S. port of entry.

The VWP is administered by DHS and enables citizens and eligible nationals of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Additional information regarding the VWP and ESTA is available at www.cbp.gov/esta.

Eligible Countries:

Countries currently enrolled in the Visa Waiver Program include:

We look forward to ensuring your travel remains safe and convenient today and in the future.