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What is an ESTA Application Number?

Updated: Aug 24, 2023 | Tags: ESTA Application Number, ESTA Submission

Introduction An ESTA application number is generated once an application is submitted to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The application number is a unique identifier used by CBP to identify traveler profiles. The ESTA application number is an alphanumeric string of 16 characters. The sequence of characters is random and does not represent any attributes of an applicant. The application number…

How long does it take for ESTA Approval?

Updated: Aug 25, 2023 | Tags: ESTA Duration, ESTA Application Time, ESTA Form

Introduction An ESTA application is processed instantly online and a majority of applications are approved within a minute of submission. However, there are cases where a decision on an application may be delayed by up to 72 hours. Once an ESTA application is approved, the user will be notified via their web browser or email. The approval notification will contain the application or authorization…

When to apply for ESTA

Updated: Jan 21, 2024 | Tags: ESTA Application Time, ESTA Status, ESTA Application Guide

Traveling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is streamlined by the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors for short stays. Determining when to apply for ESTA gives applicants a good idea of timing on when to start an ESTA application. If approved, an ESTA is issued for a period of two years or the date…

Is there a Fast-Track or Emergency ESTA Application?

Updated: Aug 24, 2023 | Tags: ESTA Application, ESTA Fee

Unfortunately, there is no special fast track or emergency ESTA application process regardless of any urgent traveler circumstances. Websites offering fast track or emergency ESTA services are misleading visitors and customers. Although applicants are advised to apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before their departure to the United States, often circumstances make it difficult to apply in advance. …

Is there a Free ESTA?

Updated: Aug 24, 2023 | Tags: ESTA Fee, ESTA Application

Prior to September 8th 2010, ESTA was free for eligible U.S. visitors. However, currently there is no longer a free ESTA. There is now a fee charged per ESTA application which was brought into effect by the 2009 Travel Promotion Act. The Travel Promotion Act called for the inclusion of a charge to be paid per ESTA submission by the applicant. The ESTA fee is split into two parts in that one part is…

Minimize common ESTA application errors

Updated: Jan 21, 2024 | Tags: ESTA Form, ESTA Application

ESTA application errors can be costly or worse, they can limit a traveler’s ability to travel to the US by making them not authorized to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Thus, ESTA applicants should fill out their form with care given the numerous types of errors that can occur. Minimize common ESTA application errors The types of errors…

Is there an electronic visa for visiting the United States?

Updated: Jan 21, 2024 | Tags: USA Visa, ESTA Application, ESTA Eligibility

In an era where digital processes are increasingly becoming the norm, the concept of an electronic visa (e-visa) is often discussed in the context of international travel. For many countries, e-visas have simplified the process of obtaining permission to enter, reducing paperwork and wait times. However, the United States does not currently offer foreign nationals electronic visas for U.S. travel. This…

ESTA website problems

Updated: Aug 24, 2023 | Tags: ESTA Website Down, ESTA Website Problems, ESTA Application

Introduction ESTA website problems are rare but can be frustrating for travelers on tight timelines. Website technical issues are inherent to any online system, especially those supporting a high volume of users. Although the ESTA systems maintains a high uptime of over 99%, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) typically performs necessary updates on the ESTA website on the weekends, most frequently…

How to apply for ESTA

Updated: Jan 21, 2024 | Tags: ESTA Application Guide, ESTA Requirements

Want to learn how to apply for ESTA? To apply for ESTA, applicants should ensure they are prepared by scheduling 15-20 minutes to complete the form, gathering the necessary documents, and allocate time to pre-read and understand the questions. Below we have put together a checklist of how to apply for ESTA. Visit the FAQ to learn more or start your application now. Apply for ESTA Time Allow at…

ESTA approved and then denied

Updated: Nov 01, 2022 | Tags: ESTA Application, ESTA Status

Introduction Having an ESTA approved and then subsequently denied is an unfortunate yet frequent outcome for many Visa Waiver Program visitors of the United States. Countless numbers of holidays and business trips have been ruined because ESTA applicants had failed to confirm the status of their ESTA approval prior to traveling by air, land or sea to the United States. U.S. bound travelers who are…