ESTA Visa UK to USA Price: Your Complete Guide to Costs and Application

ESTA Visa UK to USA Price: Your Complete Guide to Costs and Application


If you're a UK citizen planning to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit, you may be wondering about the costs and the process involved in obtaining an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). This online authorization system is a part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), allowing eligible travelers to enter the U.S. without requiring a traditional visa.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the details about the ESTA application process, including the price and any additional fees, so you can better prepare for your trip to the U.S. from the UK.

What is an ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online travel authorization that is part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of eligible countries, including the UK, can apply for an ESTA instead of a traditional visa if they plan to visit the United States for a short stay (up to 90 days). ESTA is not a visa, but it serves as pre-approval to board a flight or ship to the U.S.

The ESTA allows travelers to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or while in transit. The application process is simple, and the approval is typically granted within minutes.

What Does ESTA Cost?

The cost of an ESTA for UK citizens is a straightforward process, but it is essential to be aware of the fees associated with the application. The price for an ESTA visa for U.K. citizens traveling to the USA is as follows:

  1. ESTA Application Fee: The official fee for an ESTA application is $21 USD. This amount is paid directly to the U.S. government and covers the processing of your application. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, even if your ESTA application is denied.
  2. Additional Third-Party Service Fees: If you choose to apply for your ESTA through a third-party service provider, you may incur additional fees. These services often charge a processing fee, typically ranging from $10 to $30 USD on top of the official $21 ESTA application fee. These third-party services offer convenience, but it’s essential to understand that the fee is for the service, not the official U.S. government ESTA authorization.

Therefore, if you choose a third-party provider, the total cost could range from $31 to $51 USD, depending on the service you choose.

What’s Included in the ESTA Fee?

The $21 ESTA fee covers the following:

  1. Application Processing: This is the fee for the U.S. government to process your ESTA application. This involves verifying your details and conducting security screenings.
  2. Travel Authorization Approval: If your ESTA is approved, the fee covers the issuance of your travel authorization. This allows you to board a flight or ship to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program.
  3. System Maintenance and Security Checks: The fee helps to maintain and operate the ESTA system and ensures your application is securely reviewed.

While the application fee itself is fairly low, the additional third-party charges for convenience may make the overall cost higher.

Why Do You Need an ESTA?

An ESTA is required for all UK travelers who plan to visit the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It is an essential document for entry into the United States, and failure to apply for one may result in being denied boarding by your airline or cruise line, as airlines are required to check for ESTA approval before allowing you to travel.

It’s important to understand that while the ESTA allows you to travel to the U.S., it does not guarantee entry. Final entry decisions are made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry.

How to Apply for an ESTA from the UK

Applying for an ESTA from the UK is easy, and the process can be done online. Here’s how you can apply:

  1. Visit the Official ESTA Website: Go to the official U.S. government ESTA website. It’s crucial to apply through the official site to avoid unnecessary third-party service fees.
  2. Fill Out the Application: The application form will ask for your personal details, including your passport information, travel plans, and any relevant questions regarding your criminal history, past visits to the U.S., etc. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your passport.
  3. Pay the Application Fee: The $21 fee must be paid during the application process. Payments can be made via credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.) or PayPal.
  4. Submit Your Application: After payment, submit your application. Most ESTA applications are processed within minutes, but it may take up to 72 hours for approval.
  5. Receive Your ESTA Approval: Once your ESTA is approved, you will receive an email notification with your travel authorization. It’s a good idea to print a copy of your approval for your records, though it’s not required to carry the printout when you travel, as the ESTA is electronically linked to your passport.
  6. Check Your ESTA Status: Before your departure, it’s a good idea to double-check your ESTA status online. If there are any issues, you can resolve them well in advance of your travel date.

How Long Is an ESTA Valid?

An approved ESTA is valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. without needing to reapply for a new ESTA.

However, if your personal details change (such as a change of name or nationality), or if your passport expires, you will need to apply for a new ESTA.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the ESTA Fee?

If you don’t pay the ESTA fee, your application will not be processed, and you will not be granted approval to board a flight or ship to the United States. Without an approved ESTA, you may be denied entry at the airport or port of departure, as airlines and cruise lines are prohibited from letting passengers board without the proper travel authorization.

Additional Costs and Travel Considerations

Apart from the ESTA fee, there are other costs you may need to account for when preparing for your trip to the U.S. These may include:

  1. Flight and Accommodation Costs: Flight tickets and hotel stays can significantly add to the cost of your trip to the U.S. Be sure to budget for these essential travel expenses.
  2. Travel Insurance: Although not required for ESTA travel, travel insurance is highly recommended. It helps to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected situations during your trip.
  3. Transportation Costs: Depending on your itinerary, you may need to rent a car, take taxis, or use public transportation in the U.S. Make sure to include these costs in your travel budget.
  4. Activity Fees: Visiting popular tourist attractions, parks, museums, or entertainment venues can add additional expenses to your trip. Be sure to plan for activities you intend to do while in the U.S.

Key Takeaways

  • The official ESTA fee for UK travelers to the U.S. is $21 USD.
  • You may incur additional fees from third-party services, which can range from $10 to $30 USD.
  • An approved ESTA allows for travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program for tourism, business, or transit, for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Apply directly through the official U.S. government website to avoid additional service charges.

Call for Action: Apply for Your ESTA Now!

Ready to visit the United States? Make sure your ESTA application is processed on time by applying online today. Don’t delay your trip—apply for your ESTA and get your approval quickly and easily!

Click below to apply for your ESTA now:

CLICK HERE

Ensure your travel authorization is approved and get ready for a smooth journey to the U.S.!


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