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• Transportation Security
• Visa Waiver Program
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

Visa Waiver Program travelers are required to apply for and receive an approved travel authorization via ESTA to board a plane or vessel bound for the United States. (A travel authorization via ESTA is not a guarantee of admission into the United States. Travelers must establish their eligibility for the program during inspection by an officer at a port of entry.)

In most instances, ESTA applicants will receive real-time notification on the status of their application to travel to the United States. Applicants denied an ESTA will be advised to apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.

For more information, and to apply for a travel authorization, see ESTA .

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Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

Find out the requirements for ESTA

If you are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must meet the eligibility requirements to travel to the U.S. under the program. You will also need authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before beginning your trip. Learn about the VWP and ESTA and if your country participates in the program.

How to request a travel authorization to the U.S. through ESTA

If you find out your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program:

Confirm that your passport meets the program requirements. You must have an  electronic passport or “e-Passport”  to participate in the VWP. This type of passport includes a chip.

Complete the  ESTA application  online.

Pay the fees: The total cost is $21. When you apply, you will pay a $4 processing fee. If you are approved to travel to the U.S., you must pay an additional $17 authorization fee.  Learn about the payment options available to pay ESTA fees.

When you complete and submit the form and processing fee, you will get an ESTA application number. Use that number to  check the status of your application . It may take up to 72 hours to find out if you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.

Each approved ESTA application is generally valid for two years and allows multiple visits to the U.S. within that period without having to apply for another travel approval. If your passport expires in less than two years, you will receive an ESTA approval valid until the passport's expiration date.

When you travel to the U.S. for tourism or business under the VWP, you may stay up to 90 days per visit.

If you have questions about the ESTA and VWP application process, visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) FAQ page .

Other travel documents you will need to enter the U.S.

Even if you qualify for the VWP, you will need to bring a passport from your country of citizenship to enter the U.S. Generally, a visitor’s passport must not expire less than six months from the date they plan to exit the U.S. But some countries extend the validity of their passports for an additional six months after expiration. They are known as being part of the “Six Month Club.” Learn which countries are exempt from the six-month passport rule.

When you enter the U.S., officials at your port of entry will issue you a Form I-94W, an electronic record of your entry date. Learn more about I-94W and how to apply.

LAST UPDATED: July 19, 2024

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What to know about the US ESTA 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it costs

If you're traveling to the U.S. any time soon and you're a citizen of the United Kingdom or Europe, it's quite likely that you'll need to apply for an ESTA before you visit.

Short for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, applying for an ESTA might seem daunting if you've never done it before. Don't worry — we have you covered.

Below we break down everything you need to know about applying for an ESTA, from how much it will cost and approval times to when you should renew it and when you need to consider applying for one.

Related: What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost

What is the ESTA 'visa'?

An ESTA is an automated part of the Visa Waiver Program that allows visitors from specific countries to visit the U.S. Visitors must be citizens of countries classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver list to be eligible for an ESTA application. Currently, 40 countries are included on the list, including the U.K. and much of Europe.

ESTA holders can visit the U.S. for a period of 90 days or less without the need to apply for a standard visa if their visit is either a vacation or a business trip.

ESTA was initially rolled out by the U.S. in 2008 to allow the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Borders Protection to use authorized databases to pre-screen visitors to the country. It also allows the easier identification of terrorists, criminals and banned flyers, and is designed to help prevent such people from entering the country. It can also help identify those who may be a risk for overstaying their visits.

Is an ESTA a visa?

No, an ESTA is not a traditional visa and instead is classed as a visa waiver. As such, the application process is much more straightforward than applying for a traditional visa, and eligible travelers can do so by filling out a short online application on ESTA's official website.

The form requires applicants to share basic personal information, travel history and other simple security questions. Applications are usually processed within 72 hours.

Who needs to apply for an ESTA?

You'll need to apply for an ESTA if you are a citizen of a country classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver program, which includes the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, among others. You can view the full list of the 40 eligible countries on the DHS website .

If you are visiting the U.S. from one of these countries as part of a vacation or business trip that is set to last for 90 days or less — and you are arriving by either plane or cruise ship — you can apply for an ESTA.

If you already hold a visa for visiting the U.S., you do not need to also apply for an ESTA. Additionally, if you are only briefly stopping in the U.S. to catch a connecting flight or ship before moving on to your final destination, know that you will still be required to apply for an ESTA, regardless of how brief your stay is.

How much does an ESTA cost?

The ESTA application fee is $21; you can pay this fee online after filling out your application form. The fee was increased from $14 in May 2023, and its current pricing will remain in effect until September 2027.

Valid payment methods include:

• American Express
• Discover (JCB or Diners Club only)

Your application will not be submitted for approval until your payment has been received.

How do you apply for an ESTA?

You can only apply for an ESTA online. Find the official site here .

You will be asked to accept various terms and upload an image of your passport during your application. After uploading an image of your passport, you will also be asked to share your passport information, valid email address and other standard personal details, along with information regarding your upcoming and previous travel history.

If applicable, you may also be required to share details about your employment; aliases or other names; a national ID or personal ID number; your Global Entry, Nexus or Sentri ID number; and the name, addresses or phone number for any U.S. points of contact.

When do I need to apply for an ESTA?

Your ESTA application can be submitted at any time before you travel to the U.S. However, the DHS advises you to apply at least 72 hours before travel to allow time for processing ahead of departure.

How long does an ESTA application take to be approved?

In TPG's experience, an ESTA application can often be approved on the same day you apply, though it can sometimes take up to 72 hours to be processed. We recommend applying at least a week or two before traveling to allow time for the application to be approved.

How long is an ESTA valid for, and will I need to apply for each trip to the US?

Once approved, your ESTA will be valid for two years from the date it was authorized or until the date your passport expires — depending on which comes first. You will not be required to apply for a new ESTA for each subsequent visit to the U.S. as long as any trips fall within the two-year validity period.

If you acquire a new passport or change your name, sex or citizenship after having your ESTA approved, you must submit a new application for approval.

How can I check my ESTA status?

If you have applied for an ESTA and want to check its status, you can do so by visiting the ESTA website and selecting "Check ESTA Status."

If you are checking your own application, click "Check Individual Status." You will then be asked to supply either your passport number, date of birth and application number or your country of citizenship and passport issue and expiration dates.

To check the status of a group application, click "Check Group Status." From here, you will be asked to supply your group ID, family name, first (given) name, email and date of birth of your group's point of contact.

You will then be able to see the current status of your ESTA, which will fall into one of three categories:

• Authorization Approved — meaning your application was successful, and you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Travel Not Authorized — meaning your application was unsuccessful, and you're not authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Authorization Pending — Your travel authorization is still under review and should usually be determined within 72 hours

Note that while in most cases you will be fine entering the U.S. once your application is approved, having an ESTA alone does not guarantee admission. Your final entry will be at the discretion of the CBP officer at your destination.

Bottom line

If you are traveling to the U.S. from the U.K. or other countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure if you are not already approved.

Your ESTA will cost $21 and will be valid for two years from its authorization date. If you already have an ESTA, it's wise to check its status before any trips to the U.S. to ensure it's still valid.

Related reading:

• What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost
• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or an expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

The Visa Waiver Program  (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries *  to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid  Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor (B) visa.

Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015

Under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, travelers in the following categories must obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United States as they are no longer eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
• Nationals of VWP countries who have traveled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Cuba, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.

Requirements for Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

You must meet  all  the following requirements to travel to the United States on the VWP:

Travel Purpose Must be Permitted on a Visitor (B) Visa

The following are examples of activities permitted while in the United States on the VWP. In addition, transiting through the United States to other countries is generally permitted for VWP travelers.

• consult with business associates
• attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• attend short-term training (you may not be paid by any source in the United States with the exception of expenses incidental to your stay)
• negotiate a contract

Learn more about  Business Travel to the United States  (PDF - 362 KB).

• vacation (holiday)
• visit with friends or relatives
• medical treatment
• participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Learn more about  Visitor Visas - Business and Pleasure  (PDF - 510 KB).

Travel Purposes Not Permitted on Visa Waiver Program – Examples:

• study, for credit
• work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, or other information media
• permanent residence in the United States

Must Be a Citizen or National of a VWP Designated Country *

You must be a citizen or national of the following countries *  to be eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP.

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom**

**To be eligible to travel under the VWP, British citizens must have the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.

Each Traveler Must Have a Valid ESTA

In order to travel without a visa on the VWP, you must have valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to boarding a U.S. bound air or sea carrier. ESTA is a web-based system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to determine eligibility to travel to the United States for tourism or business under the VWP. Visit the  ESTA webpage  on the CBP website for more information.

Updating Your ESTA

In most cases, your ESTA will be valid for two years.  You also must obtain a new ESTA if you: (1) receive a new passport, including an emergency or temporary passport; (2) change your name; (3) change your gender; (4) change your country of citizenship; or (5) need to change your responses to any of the “yes” or “no” questions on the ESTA application.

These individuals can apply for visas using regular appointment processes at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. For more information, please visit the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will interview.

If an individual who is exempt from the Act because of his or her diplomatic or military presence in one of the seven countries is denied ESTA, he or she may go to the  CBP website , or contact the  CBP information Center . The traveler may also apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection strongly recommends that any traveler to the United States check his or her  ESTA status  prior to making any travel reservations or travelling to the United States. More information is available on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website . 

Have the Correct Type of Passport

You must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the United States (unless exempted by  country-specific agreements ). For families, each member of your family, including infants and children, must have a passport. 

In addition, you must have an e-passport to use the VWP. An e-passport is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip. The chip can be scanned to match the identity of the traveler to the passport. E-Passports must be in compliance with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). You can readily identify an e-passport, by a symbol on the cover. See the example below. More information about e-passports is available on the DHS website .

Emergency and Temporary Passports

If you use an   emergency or temporary passport to enter the United States on the VWP, the passport must be an e-passport. This includes VWP travelers who are transiting the United States. 

More information on frequently asked questions about VWP can be found at the following websites:

• DHS Visa Waiver Program Requirements
• CBP Visa Waiver Program

May I apply for a visa instead of using the VWP?

Yes, you may apply for a visitor (B) visa if you prefer to do so or if you are not eligible for VWP travel. Additionally, you need to apply for a visa if you will be traveling on a private aircraft or other non-VWP approved air or sea carrier. Review the  approved carriers list . Also, if you intend to stay longer than 90 days, then you need to apply for a visa. 

I was denied a visa under section 214(b). May I use the VWP?

A recent visa refusal for any reason could result in denial of ESTA authorization, additional review at the port of entry, or denial of admission to the United States. If you are uncertain if you qualify for VWP travel, you may apply for a visa.

Trips to Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands

If you are admitted to the United States under the VWP, you may take a short trip to Canada, Mexico, or a nearby island and generally be readmitted to the United States under the VWP for the remainder of the original 90 days granted upon your initial arrival in the United States. Therefore, the length of time of your total stay, including the short trip, must be 90 days or less. See the  CBP website . Citizens of VWP countries *  who reside in Mexico, Canada, or a nearby island are generally exempted from the requirement to show onward travel to another country *  when entering the United States. Learn more on the  CBP website .

How can a country* join the VWP?

A country *  must meet various requirements to be considered for designation in the Visa Waiver Program. Requirements include, but are not limited to:

• enhanced law enforcement and security-related data sharing with the United States;
• issuing e-passports;
• having a visitor (B) visa refusal rate of less than three percent (for initial designation);
• timely reporting of both blank and issued lost and stolen passports; and
• maintenance of high counterterrorism, law enforcement, border control, and document security standards.

Designation as a VWP country *  is at the discretion of the U.S. government. Meeting the objective requirements of the VWP does not guarantee a country *  will receive VWP designation.

Entering the United States

An approved ESTA allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States, but an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. Learn more on the  CBP website .

Extending your stay

If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to extend your stay in the United States beyond the initial admission period. You must depart the United States on or before the date on your admission stamp when you entered the United States. See Extend Your Stay on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website .

Change of status

If you enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you are not permitted to change status in the United States. See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

What if I am traveling to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands?

Citizens of Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and the United Kingdom do not need a visa or ESTA to visit both Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands because of the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, though they must complete Form I-736 prior to travel.  People's Republic of China Passport holders also do not need a visa if they complete Form I-736 for temporary admission into the Northern Mariana Islands. For more information on the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program,  click here

* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” on this page, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

More Information

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• For International Visitors
• Electronic System For Travel Authorization
• Strengthening Security of The VWP Through Enhancements To ESTA

Strengthening Security of the VWP through Enhancements to ESTA

The Secure Travel and Counterterrorism Partnership Act of 2007 (part of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, also known as the “9/11 Act”) (Pub. L. No. 110-53) amended Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, requiring that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implement an electronic travel authorization system and other measures to enhance the security of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). On August 1, 2008, DHS implemented the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), adding a significant layer of security to the VWP by enabling U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to conduct security vetting of prospective VWP travelers to determine if they pose a law enforcement or security risk before they board aircraft destined for the United States.

Although the U.S. Government does not currently have any credible information that the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or other Syria-based terrorist groups are planning imminent attacks against the United States, we do know that a significant number of foreign fighters have traveled to Syria over the past three years, including citizens from the United States and Europe. Many of these foreign fighters have joined ISIL’s and other terrorist groups’ ranks and there are significant concerns that these groups may use these fighters to conduct external attacks. These foreign fighters are likely to gain experience and training from the Syria-based groups and eventually may return to their own countries battle-hardened and further radicalized. Many of these fighters may possess valid European and U.S. passports or travel documents, and pose a potential threat for committing terrorist attacks in Europe or the United States.

ESTA has been a highly effective security and vetting tool that has enabled DHS to deny travel under the VWP to thousands of prospective travelers who pose a risk to the United States. Since program inception in August 2008, CBP has approved millions of ESTA applications, but has denied over 4,300 ESTA applications as a result of vetting against the U.S. Government’s known/suspected terrorist watchlist. During that same period of time, CBP has also denied over 22,500 ESTA applications for individuals who applied for an ESTA using a passport that had been reported as lost or stolen. As part of our commitment to preventing terrorist attacks here in the homeland and to strengthening border and immigration security, DHS has been carefully evaluating options for further strengthening the security of the VWP, to include enhancements to ESTA that would bolster CBP’s ability to identify potential security threats.

In response to increasing concerns regarding foreign fighters, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is strengthening the security of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) through enhancements to ESTA. These improvements are designed to address the immediate foreign fighter threat, provide an additional layer of enduring security for the VWP and facilitate visa-free travel to the United States. DHS has determined that ESTA enhancements will improve the Department’s ability to screen prospective VWP travelers and more accurately and effectively identify those who pose a security risk to the United States. DHS also believes enhancements to ESTA will help the Department facilitate adjudication of ESTA applications. By requiring ESTA applicants to provide additional information, DHS will enhance its ability to identify ESTA applicants on the terrorist watchlist and therefore reduce the number of inconclusive matches that currently result in an ESTA denial, requiring the applicant to apply for a visa for travel to the United States.

ESTA is a web-based application and screening system used to determine whether certain aliens are eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP. As stated in the ESTA Privacy Impact Assessment Update dated June 5, 2013, DHS has entered a Memorandum of Agreement with the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) that permits NCTC to use ESTA information to facilitate NCTC’s counterterrorism efforts and helps to ensure travel authorizations are not issued to individuals who pose a threat to national security.

No single data element by itself enhances ESTA to address the foreign fighter threat. It is the combined totality of existing and new ESTA data elements that will help the U.S. Government mitigate the foreign fighter threat and facilitate lawful travel under the VWP. All ESTA data elements will help DHS adjudicate applications and, in many cases, enable DHS to distinguish between lawful applicants and individuals of concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it necessary to expand the amount of esta information being collected from vwp travelers.

DHS is committed to protecting the United States by ensuring that ESTA adapts to meet evolving threats. The current ESTA application has been in operation for six years, and DHS has determined that the additional data requested will enhance our ability to more accurately screen and identify potential security risks.

DHS is concerned about the risks posed by the situation in Syria and Iraq, where increasing instability has attracted thousands of foreign fighters, including many from VWP countries. Such individuals could travel to the United States for operational purposes on their own or at the behest of violent extremist groups in Syria.

• We have already observed cases in which individuals traveled from Syria to Europe and carried out attacks, most notably a shooting at a museum in Belgium in late May, 2014. We have also seen several public threats to attack the United States and the West in response to our involvement in Iraq.
• The additional ESTA data fields will improve our ability to identify threats to the United States, as well as known or suspected terrorists seeking to travel to the United States.
• By expanding the data fields, DHS will be better positioned to verify identifies, limiting the number of rejections that result in applicants having to go through the visa process.

How does this improve the security of the Visa Waiver Program?

Since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the VWP has evolved from a travel facilitation program concerned about the threat of economic migration to one with more robust security standards that are designed to prevent terrorists and other criminal actors from exploiting visa-free travel. On August 1, 2008, DHS implemented the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), adding a significant layer of security to the VWP by enabling U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to conduct security vetting of prospective VWP travelers to determine if they pose a law enforcement or security risk before they board aircraft destined for the United States.

ESTA has been a highly effective security and vetting tool that has enabled DHS to deny travel under the VWP to thousands of prospective travelers who pose a risk to the United States. Since program inception in August 2008, CBP has approved millions of ESTA applications, but has denied over 4,300 ESTA applications as a result of vetting against the U.S. Government’s known/suspected terrorist watchlist. During that same period of time, CBP has also denied over 22,500 ESTA applications for individuals who applied for an ESTA using a passport that had been reported as lost or stolen.

DHS continuously seeks to improve its ability to identify prospective travelers to the United States about whom derogatory information exists, but about whom there is currently insufficient information to identify them before they initiate an attack. In some cases, the U.S. government has only fragmentary or partial information about the identity of a terrorist operative, so having additional information is vital to DHS screening and vetting authorities.

For example, during one counterterrorism investigation, the discovery of a telephone number linked to the 2010 Times Square bomber’s vehicle purchase after the failed attack led to the identification of the perpetrator. Comparing that telephone number against travel information enabled law enforcement to identify the operative, prevent him from fleeing the country, and arrest him.

The ESTA enhancements are designed to address the immediate foreign fighter threat and to provide an additional layer of enduring security for the VWP and facilitate visa free travel to the United States.

What are the additional ESTA questions that are being added to the ESTA application?

The additional questions are:

• Other Names/Aliases or Other Citizenships
• Parents name(s)
• National Identification Number (if applicable)
• Contact information (email, phone, points of contact)
• Employment information (if applicable)
• City of Birth

Will this change discourage legitimate foreign national travelers?

DHS is committed to facilitating legitimate trade and travel while maintaining the highest standards of security and border protection. Requirements for travel to the United States have increased, especially since September 11, 2001, to enhance the security at the U.S. borders; however, the flow of goods and visitors into the United States continues to grow each year.

By adding these additional questions, won’t ESTA now be the equivalent of an electronic visa?

No. The requirements for a nonimmigrant visitor (B1/B2) visa are different under U.S. statute and more complex than the requirements for an ESTA. Applicants for a B1/B2 visa must complete a visa application (DS-160) and interview with a United States Department of State consular officer. Part of the application process requires the applicant to submit their biometric information in advance of travel, and provide additional biographic information as required. These requirements do not exist for VWP travelers and will not exist with the addition of new ESTA questions.

We have heard the concerns about the citizens of European countries traveling to Syria and Iraq to fight alongside the terrorists and who might then try to travel to the United States without a visa. However, the same threat does not exist at this time fr

DHS manages a VWP with uniform and high security standards, therefore any general changes to the Program’s requirements must apply to all countries. DHS and all VWP countries have a joint stake in identifying foreign fighters due to common security interests. After the passage of the Secure Travel and Counterterrorism Partnership Act of 2007, for example, all VWP countries—regardless their size or geographic location—were required to comply with the law’s information sharing requirements. The ESTA program is designed to be a consistent non-discriminatory mechanism applicable to all VWP travelers regardless of their passport or country of citizenship. Furthermore, the nationals of many countries from many parts of the world have joined terrorist groups and terrorism has threatened countries in all parts of the world.

Even with these additional ESTA questions, does the VWP represent a security vulnerability?

No. Countries that participate in the VWP are required to have a high degree of security cooperation with the United States; sign information sharing agreements regarding known, suspected or potential terrorists and serious criminals; report lost and stolen passport (LASP) data to the United States; and issue International Civil Aviation Organization-compliant e-passports. VWP countries are also subject to biennial eligibility reviews, which provide DHS with the opportunity to conduct broad and consequential inspections of foreign security standards and operations, and verify the level of law enforcement and counterterrorism cooperation with the United States. The Director of National Intelligence is required to complete an intelligence assessment to support each eligibility review conducted by DHS.

VWP travelers must obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to commencing VWP travel to the United States. ESTA continuously vets applicants’ biographic information against the Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB); lost and stolen passport records (including INTERPOL’s Stolen and Lost Travel Documents [SLTD]); visa revocations; previous VWP refusals; expedited removals; and Public Health records, e.g., records from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for persons who have a communicable disease constituting a public health threat.

Will the ESTA fee increase with these changes?

There is no plan to increase the ESTA fee when the changes take effect.

Will DHS reduce the number of elements once the threat has passed?

DHS will remain agile and ready to adapt to evolving situations. It is possible that DHS will make further changes to the collection of data in the future.

How do additional data elements provide additional security?

The additional information that is collected will enable DHS to use ESTA data to better identify potentially high-risk travelers who may pose a threat to the United States from VWP countries.

Why is DHS doing this under a Paperwork Reduction Act and not a regulation?

The relevant regulatory provision does not list the specific data elements that VWP travelers must provide in order to obtain an ESTA. Instead, the regulation states that “ESTA will collect such information as the Secretary [of Homeland Security] deems necessary to issue a travel authorization, as reflected by the I-94W Nonimmigrant Alien Arrival/Departure Form (I-94W).” Since there are no data elements listed in the regulation, there is no need to update the regulation. The revisions to the ESTA data elements fall under the Paperwork Reduction Act since DHS is amending an information collection (Form I-94W) and not amending a regulation.

I have a valid, approved ESTA application. Do I need to update my application or submit a new one?

No, individuals with a current and valid ESTA do not need to reapply. However, upon the expiration of that ESTA or expiration of the passport a new ESTA with the new data fields will be required for any future travel under the VWP.

How will this information be used?

DHS will handle the new information in the same manner as other information collected through ESTA - through the System of Record Notice (SORN) and Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA). As before, DHS will screen intending VWP travelers to determine their eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP. The additional questions will improve DHS’s ability to identify individuals with links to terrorist activities, and the additional data fields will make DHS screening more accurate, enhance our ability to conduct identity resolution, and help DHS pinpoint security threats.

Will DHS disclose the new ESTA information outside DHS?

The information collected by and maintained in ESTA may be used by other components of DHS on a need-to-know basis consistent with the component's mission.

Under current agreements between DHS and the Department of State (DOS), information submitted during an ESTA application may be shared with consular officers of DOS to assist them in determining whether a visa should be issued to an applicant after a travel authorization application has been denied.

Information may be shared with appropriate federal, state, local, tribal, and foreign governmental agencies or multilateral governmental organizations responsible for investigating or prosecuting the violations of, or for enforcing or implementing, a statute, rule, regulation, order or license, or where DHS believes information would assist enforcement of civil or criminal laws.

Additionally, information may be shared when DHS reasonably believes such use is to assist in anti-terrorism efforts or intelligence gathering related to national or international security or transnational crime. All sharing will remain consistent with the Privacy Act System of Records Notice, which was published in the Federal Register on October 3, 2014 and is available on the DHS Web site.

Although carriers will not receive the ESTA application information that travelers provide to DHS, they will receive confirmation of a passenger's ESTA status via the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) indicating whether an ESTA is required and whether authorization has been granted.

How long will DHS retain the data generated from these additional ESTA questions?

The data retention period remains unchanged. ESTA application data remains active for the period of time that the approved ESTA is valid, which is generally two years, or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. DHS then maintains this information for an additional year after which it is archived for twelve years – with further limited access – to allow retrieval of the information for law enforcement, national security, or investigatory purposes. These policies are consistent with both DHS Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) search authority and with the border security mission mandated for CBP by Congress. Data linked to active law enforcement lookout records, CBP matches to enforcement activities, and/or investigations or cases, including applications for ESTAs that are denied, will remain accessible for the life of the law enforcement activities to which they are related.

How will this information be safeguarded?

Information submitted by applicants through the ESTA Web site will continue to be subject to the same strict privacy provisions, use limitations, and access controls that have been established for similar traveler screening programs.

With the additional questions, will it now take longer for a VWP traveler’s ESTA to be approved?

DHS does not anticipate any delays in processing ESTA applications after the new questions are added.

Will my ESTA be denied if I leave a mandatory field blank?

All mandatory fields must be completed. If erroneous information is entered this will not result in an automatic denial, but it may require manual adjudication (therefore additional time) prior to CBP providing a response back to the applicant. DHS has included flexibility in the ESTA application process to account for circumstances where applicants may not know the answer to a question or may not have information readily available to answer specific questions. For example, some applicants may not know have a U.S. point of contact, and the applicant may complete that mandatory question by answering “unknown.”

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• ESTA Requirements
• Visa Waiver Program

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 itself cannot be used to obtain applicant information, however, alongside a passport number and date of birth, it can be used to obtain the status of an existing ESTA application .

What is the purpose of an ESTA authorization number?

The number digitally links an applicant’s profile, including their passport, personal, travel and other information. The ESTA application number is also used as a traveler’s authorization number when the application is approved. Thus, for approved ESTA applications, the application number and authorization number are same. However in cases where an ESTA is denied, an ESTA application number will not be linked to a successfully authorized ESTA application, instead it will remain in the status of ‘Travel Not Authorized’. The status of an existing ESTA application can only be checked online.

Why is an ESTA Application Number important?

Status Check: You can use this number to check the status of your ESTA application .

Updates: If you need to update non-critical information on your application, such as an address of stay in the U.S., the application number is essential.

Record Keeping: The application number is important for your records, especially if you need to refer back to an approved application when planning future travel to the U.S.

Travel Reference: Airlines and border control agencies may require you to provide this number as part of their procedures to verify your travel authorization.

Applying for a New ESTA: If your ESTA is nearing expiration and you plan to apply again, having the previous application number handy can be helpful to reference, although usually, you'll need to start a new application as the previous submission may no longer be available.

Where can I find the ESTA Application Number?

Your ESTA Application Number can be found in one of three ways:

[1] Initial Confirmation Page: The ESTA Application Number is typically displayed on the confirmation screen immediately after you submit your application.

[2] Email Confirmation: It is also sent to the email address provided during the application process.

[3] PDF Copy: You may have received or saved a digital PDF copy of the confirmation page or email for your records. This page should contain your ESTA Application Number

What to do if you lose your ESTA Application Number

If you lose or forget your ESTA Application Number, you can usually retrieve it by going to the ESTA website and using the "Check Existing Application" or "Retrieve Application Number" feature. You'll need to provide identifying information such as your passport number and birth date.

Always keep your ESTA Application Number confidential and secure to protect your personal information. Keep in mind that guidelines and features can change, so it's good to check the most recent regulations and procedures.

What are the ESTA status’?

There are multiple ESTA status’ which applicants may come across when checking if their ESTA is still valid . If the status is ‘Payment Pending’ this means an application has not yet been submitted to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for processing. Thus, the applicant will need to complete payment for their application to be processed. If an ESTA application is not paid within seven days it will expire and will no longer be accessible and a new application will need to be submitted.

How do I know if my ESTA authorization number is genuine?

You can verify the status of any ESTA authorization received by visiting the check ESTA application status page . If the application status returns as ‘No Application Found’ then no application exists and you will need to apply for ESTA.

An ESTA application number is an important link between your application to enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, your passport, personal and travel details. Applicants are advised to make a note of their ESTA application numbers to check the status of their authorizations before traveling to the United States.

If you hold a passport from a visa waiver eligible country and wish to obtain an ESTA for tourist, business, medical or transit purposes, get started on your application, otherwise,  visit the FAQ  to learn more about the ESTA

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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US Visa Number : Nonimmigrant and Immigrant Visas

Your U.S. visa number is an important number that can be found on your visa documentation

All U.S. immigrant and non-immigrant visas have a U.S. visa number. This number plays a crucial role in the immigration process. You may need to reference your visa number in certain documents. A U.S. government officer may need your visa number to check certain information on your file. Today, we’re explaining everything you need to know about the U.S. visa number and how it works.

What is a Visa Number?

Your U.S. visa number is a red number located in the bottom right of your visa. After your visa is approved by a U.S. embassy, the consular officer will stamp or attach the visa on a full page of your passport. The visa contains various information about your immigrant or non-immigrant status. It includes an expiry date, a photo, and other information. It also includes a number.

When you enter the United States, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials will check your visa and verify the information on that visa. They want to ensure each visa matches each individual seeking entry to the United States. The CBP officer may write down or record various information on your visa into the system, including your visa number.

By entering your visa number into the system, the border officer can verify your information. In addition, that information can be recalled at a future date.

Each U.S. visa number is unique. The number itself looks like a random string of numbers. The numbers won’t mean anything to you. However, they will be used to reference your U.S. visa application in the future.

Interestingly, the U.S. visa numbers do not change based on your visa type or other information. There are no similarities between the two K-1 visa numbers , for example, or H-1B visa numbers . All U.S. visa numbers are randomized based on the individual. As far as we can tell, there’s no specific pattern between visa numbers.

Where Can I Find My Visa Number?

Check your U.S. visa and you should be able to quickly find your visa number. On virtually all visas (the document or stamp inside your passport), you should see a red number in the bottom right corner of the document.

Most of the information on the visa is written in black ink. The number in red, however, will be the visa number. It tends to stand out from the rest of the document.

Your visa number may not necessarily be in the bottom right corner of your visa page. In some cases, your visa number will be elsewhere on the document. In most cases, however, your U.S. visa number will be typed in red ink on the bottom right corner of your document.

In addition to the U.S visa number, here is the other information listed on a typical U.S. visa:

• Issuing port name, which is the U.S. embassy that issued the visa
• First and last name
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Visa type (like a K-1 fiancé visa or an H-1B work visa)
• Entries, which could reference the number of times the individual is allowed to enter the United States (S for Single Entry or M for Multiple Entries, for example)
• Issuing date, which is the date the visa was issued by the U.S. embassy
• Expiration date
• Annotations, which can include any additional notes made by U.S. embassy staff to supplement your visa, like the name of your educational institution, your fiancé, your spouse, or your employer

How to Get a U.S. Visa Number

Getting a U.S. visa number is straightforward. The main thing you need to do, of course, is to apply for and receive a U.S. visa .

You must go through the process of applying for and receiving a U.S. visa. Both immigrant and non-immigrant visas have a visa number. Some visas are granted to those who seek to work in the United States. Other visas are granted to the spouses or fiancés of U.S. citizens.

Typically, a U.S. visa application process involves the following steps:

Step 1) Submit form DS-160 or DS-260 online via your local U.S. embassy’s website

Step 2) Pay the visa application fee

Step 3) Schedule a visa interview with a local U.S. embassy or consulate

Step 4) Collect and submit the required documents

Step 5) Attend the visa interview

The U.S. embassy will then approve or deny your application and send you the visa (and your completed passport) via courier to your address. The visa will include all of the information above. It will be valid for a pre-determined length of time (for a non-immigrant visa). Or, if it’s an immigrant visa , then the visa may be permanent or for a long period of time (i.e. it’s a Green Card).

Ultimately, the U.S. visa number plays a crucial role in the U.S. visa application process . It may be referenced every time you cross the border. It may also be used to reference your information at a future date. All U.S. visa numbers are unique, and there are no discernible patterns between U.S. visa numbers. You can receive a U.S. visa number by applying for a U.S. visa today .