ESTA for USA Price: What You Need to Know

ESTA for USA Price: What You Need to Know


If you’re planning to visit the United States from the UK or any other Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, one of the essential steps in your travel planning is understanding the price of applying for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). An ESTA is a mandatory travel authorization for travelers from countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program, allowing you to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the ESTA for USA price, including the costs involved in the application process, and provide you with important details on how to apply.

What is an ESTA and Why Do You Need It?

The ESTA is an online travel authorization required by the U.S. government for citizens of countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), such as the UK, to enter the United States for up to 90 days without the need for a traditional visa. The ESTA allows you to travel for purposes of tourism, business, or transit.

As a UK citizen, you can take advantage of the Visa Waiver Program by applying for an ESTA online. The process is simple and quick, but it’s important to understand the associated costs before applying.

How Much Does ESTA for USA Cost?

The total ESTA for USA price is $21 USD, which covers the processing and authorization fees. This fee is required for each individual traveler, and you will need to pay it during the application process. It’s important to note that the ESTA fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved in applying for an ESTA:

1. Application Fee

The main fee for the ESTA application is $21 USD. This fee is used to process and approve your ESTA request. The $21 fee is further divided into:

  • $4 USD for processing.
  • $17 USD for authorization.

2. Additional Costs

Some third-party services offer expedited processing or other additional services that may charge higher fees. These services are optional and not required for the ESTA application. Using the official ESTA website is the most affordable way to apply.

If you are applying through third-party services, the ESTA price can range anywhere from $40 USD to $100 USD, depending on the service provider. However, these additional fees are not necessary, as the official ESTA website charges only $21 USD.

3. Payment Methods

You can pay the ESTA fee using a credit card or PayPal. Most major credit cards are accepted, making the payment process convenient and secure.

4. Non-Refundable Fee

Please remember that the ESTA fee is non-refundable. If your ESTA application is denied, you will not be able to recover the amount you paid. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that all your details are correct when filling out the application to avoid unnecessary costs.

How to Apply for ESTA from the UK

The ESTA application process is quick and simple, and it can be completed online. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for ESTA from the UK and pay the required $21 fee:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Make sure you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program. If you are a UK citizen with a valid machine-readable passport, you can apply for an ESTA under the VWP.

Step 2: Visit the Official ESTA Website

Go to the official ESTA website to complete your application. It’s essential to use the official government website to avoid paying higher fees or dealing with third-party services.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Fill out the ESTA application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. You will also need to provide an emergency contact and answer a few questions related to your travel history and health.

Step 4: Pay the ESTA Fee

After completing the application, you will be prompted to pay the $21 fee via credit card or PayPal. The payment is processed securely, and you’ll receive a confirmation email.

Step 5: Receive ESTA Approval

In most cases, you will receive your ESTA approval within minutes. However, it’s recommended to apply for the ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure to allow for any unforeseen delays. If your ESTA is approved, you will receive an email confirmation.

Step 6: Print Your ESTA Approval

Although your ESTA approval is electronically linked to your passport, it’s a good idea to print a copy of your ESTA approval and carry it with you while traveling to the USA.

How Long is ESTA Valid?

Once your ESTA is approved, it will be valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). During this period, you can use your ESTA for multiple trips to the U.S. as long as each stay is under 90 days.

Can You Apply for ESTA Multiple Times?

Yes, you can apply for ESTA multiple times. If you have a valid ESTA and plan to visit the U.S. again, you don’t need to apply for a new ESTA as long as your previous ESTA is still valid. Once your ESTA expires, you will need to apply for a new one.

What to Do if Your ESTA is Denied?

If your ESTA application is denied, you will not be able to travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program. In this case, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The visa application process is more detailed and costly compared to the ESTA application, but it’s a necessary step if your ESTA is denied.

Conclusion: ESTA for USA Price

The price of ESTA for the USA is $21 USD, which includes both the processing and authorization fees. This fee is affordable and covers your travel authorization for up to two years. If you are a UK citizen planning to visit the USA, the ESTA process is straightforward, and you can complete your application online quickly and securely.

By applying for an ESTA through the official website, you ensure that you’re paying the lowest possible price and avoiding unnecessary third-party service fees.

Ready to apply for your ESTA for the USA? Don't wait until the last minute—apply now for your ESTA and start planning your trip to the United States!

CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA for the USA online!


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