ESTA Visa for USA from the UK: Price and Costs Explained

ESTA Visa for USA from the UK: Price and Costs Explained


If you’re a UK citizen planning to visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), applying for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to gain entry. However, one important question that many travelers have is: What is the ESTA visa for the USA from the UK price? In this article, we’ll explore the cost of an ESTA visa for UK citizens, explain the factors influencing the price, and provide some additional tips on applying for your travel authorization.

1. What is the Cost of ESTA for USA from the UK?

The ESTA visa for the USA from the UK costs $21 USD. This is the standard fee required for applying for an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It’s important to note that this fee is subject to change, so always check for the latest cost when applying.

The fee is broken down as follows:

  • Application Fee: The $14 fee covers the processing and approval of your ESTA application.
  • Authorization Fee: The remaining $7 is a processing fee for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to handle your application.

2. Where to Pay the ESTA Fee?

The $21 fee for an ESTA application is paid during the online application process. You’ll need to provide your credit or debit card details at the time of submission. The payment is processed securely through the official U.S. government website, and you’ll receive a confirmation once the payment is complete.

It’s crucial to apply for your ESTA only through the official website to avoid any unnecessary additional fees from third-party services. While some websites offer to help with the ESTA process, they often charge extra for their services, which can make the overall cost higher.

3. Are There Any Other Costs Associated with ESTA?

While the primary ESTA fee is $21, there are no additional costs unless you encounter specific circumstances, such as:

  • Denied ESTA Application: If your ESTA application is denied, you may need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa. A visa typically costs more and requires an in-person interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, which could add further expenses.
  • Traveling with a Family: If you’re traveling with family members, each person must submit their own ESTA application and pay the corresponding fee. This can add up if you're traveling with multiple people.

4. Why Is There a Cost for ESTA?

The ESTA application fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing your application. The U.S. government uses the $21 fee to review your travel details, verify security information, and ensure that you meet the criteria for the Visa Waiver Program.

The fee also helps support the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which manages the security screening and approval of ESTA applications. This ensures that the system is secure and operates smoothly for travelers worldwide.

5. How to Avoid Additional Costs When Applying for ESTA

To ensure that you don’t encounter any unexpected costs when applying for your ESTA for the USA from the UK, follow these tips:

  • Apply Early: Submit your ESTA application well in advance of your travel dates to avoid the need for an expedited visa application if your ESTA is denied.
  • Use the Official ESTA Website: Only use the official U.S. government website to apply for your ESTA. Third-party websites often charge additional service fees, which can raise the cost unnecessarily.
  • Double Check Your Information: Before submitting your application, verify that all of your information is accurate. Mistakes can lead to delays or even a denied ESTA, which would result in additional costs for applying for a visa.

6. When Should You Apply for ESTA?

It’s recommended that you apply for your ESTA visa for the USA from the UK at least 72 hours before your departure, although in most cases, approval can be granted in minutes. By applying early, you’ll have time to correct any issues or misunderstandings in your application and avoid delays that might require additional costs.

Remember that ESTA approval is valid for two years, so if you are planning multiple trips to the United States during this period, you won’t need to pay the fee again unless your ESTA expires.

7. What Happens if Your ESTA is Denied?

If your ESTA application is denied, you will need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa. This will be a more expensive process, and the fees for a visa application can vary. The U.S. visa fee generally starts at $160 USD, and there may be additional costs if you need to schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

If you are denied ESTA, it’s important to check your application for errors or issues that may have caused the denial. Common reasons for ESTA denial include:

  • Inaccurate information provided on the application.
  • Criminal convictions or other issues in your travel history.
  • Previous immigration violations.

If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa. The visa application process is more thorough and time-consuming than applying for an ESTA, and you may be required to attend an in-person interview as part of the process.

8. Can You Get a Refund for ESTA?

Once your ESTA application is approved and the payment has been processed, it is generally non-refundable, even if you decide not to travel or if you cancel your trip. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that all details are correct before submitting your application.

9. Other Important Considerations

  • Validity of ESTA: Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Once approved, you can use your ESTA for multiple trips to the U.S. as long as each stay is no longer than 90 days.
  • No Guarantee of Entry: Although an ESTA authorizes you to board a flight to the U.S., it does not guarantee entry. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry have the final say on whether you will be allowed to enter the United States.

Ready to Apply for Your ESTA to the USA?

Applying for an ESTA is the most convenient and cost-effective way for UK citizens to travel to the United States. With a $21 fee, you can quickly secure travel authorization and prepare for your trip. Be sure to apply early, verify your details, and avoid unnecessary fees.

Start your ESTA application today and get ready for your adventure to the USA!

CLICK HERE to begin your ESTA application for the USA!


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