How Long Does an ESTA USA Last? Everything You Need to Know

How Long Does an ESTA USA Last? Everything You Need to Know


If you're planning to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you’ve probably heard of the ESTA USA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). An ESTA allows citizens from eligible countries to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without needing a traditional visa. One of the most common questions travelers have is: How long does an ESTA USA last? In this article, we'll answer this question in detail and provide additional information on how long you can use your ESTA, how often you can travel with it, and other important details.

What is ESTA USA?

Before diving into the duration of an ESTA, it's important to understand what it is and how it works. ESTA USA is an electronic travel authorization system created by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for travelers from countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Instead of going through the lengthy and often costly process of applying for a visa, travelers can apply for ESTA online, and if approved, they are permitted to enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

The approval process is quick and straightforward, and most applicants receive a decision within minutes. Once granted, an ESTA USA is valid for multiple entries, making it an ideal solution for frequent travelers.

How Long Does an ESTA USA Last?

The ESTA USA approval is typically valid for two years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that once you have an approved ESTA, you can use it for multiple trips to the U.S. within that two-year period without needing to apply again. However, there are a few important points to consider about the validity of your ESTA USA:

  1. Two-Year Validity: As mentioned, your ESTA will remain valid for two years or until your passport expires. If your passport expires before the two-year period, your ESTA will be invalidated, and you will need to reapply with a new passport.
  2. Multiple Entries: The ESTA allows for multiple entries to the U.S. during the validity period. This means you can visit the U.S. multiple times for business, tourism, or transit purposes, provided each stay is no longer than 90 days.
  3. Extensions and Renewals: It's important to note that ESTA USA cannot be extended. If your ESTA is nearing its expiration date or if your passport is about to expire, you will need to reapply for a new ESTA.

When Should You Reapply for ESTA USA?

Even though ESTA USA is valid for two years, there are specific circumstances when you may need to reapply for a new ESTA before that period expires:

  • Changes to Passport: If you get a new passport, your old ESTA will no longer be valid. You’ll need to apply for a new ESTA using your new passport details.
  • Changes in Personal Information: If you change any information in your application, such as your name, gender, or citizenship, you may need to apply for a new ESTA.
  • Denial of ESTA: If your ESTA is denied, you will need to apply for a regular U.S. visa, as you won't be able to enter the country under the Visa Waiver Program.
  • Changes in Eligibility: If your circumstances change and you no longer meet the eligibility requirements for the Visa Waiver Program, you will not be able to use the ESTA for future travels. This could include criminal convictions, changes in health, or new government policies.

What Happens After the Two-Year Period?

Once your ESTA USA expires, you will need to apply for a new ESTA if you wish to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. The process is similar to your initial application. You’ll need to fill out the online application form, provide your passport information, answer a series of security-related questions, and pay the application fee.

Unlike some visas, there is no requirement for an interview or documents to be submitted, as the ESTA process is fully electronic. Once approved, the new ESTA will be valid for two more years, or until your passport expires.

How Often Can You Use ESTA USA?

As long as your ESTA USA is valid, you can use it for multiple entries to the U.S. within the two-year period. Each time you enter the U.S., the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will review your ESTA authorization to ensure you are still eligible to enter under the Visa Waiver Program.

However, keep in mind the following restrictions:

  • Maximum Stay of 90 Days: Each visit to the U.S. under the ESTA USA authorization is limited to 90 days. This means you cannot stay longer than 90 days at a time, even if your ESTA is still valid. If you need to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa.
  • Frequent Visits: If you use your ESTA to visit the U.S. frequently, U.S. immigration authorities may ask questions to ensure you are not attempting to live in the U.S. without the proper visa. A pattern of frequent visits may raise suspicion, and you could be asked to prove your intent to return to your home country after each trip.

Can ESTA USA Be Revoked?

While your ESTA is generally valid for two years, it can be revoked by U.S. authorities under certain circumstances. This may happen if you:

  • Violate the conditions of your ESTA authorization (e.g., overstaying your visit).
  • Provide false information during the application process.
  • Become ineligible for the Visa Waiver Program due to criminal convictions or other changes in your circumstances.

If your ESTA is revoked, you will need to apply for a regular visa to enter the U.S. and may be subject to additional screening.

Key Takeaways

  • ESTA USA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
  • You can use your ESTA for multiple entries during the validity period, but each stay is limited to 90 days.
  • Reapply for a new ESTA if your passport expires, or if there are significant changes in your personal information.
  • Once your ESTA expires, you will need to apply for a new one if you want to continue traveling to the U.S.

Ready to Apply for ESTA USA?

If you're planning to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit, make sure to get your ESTA USA approved in advance! It's a quick and easy process that will save you time and hassle during your trip.

Apply for Visa Online

CLICK HERE to get started with your ESTA USA application today.


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