How much is the cost of ESTA

If you’re planning a trip to the United States, you may have heard of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA for short. ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

One of the most common questions that travelers have is, “How much does ESTA cost?” To answer this question, let’s delve into the details of the ESTA application process and associated fees.

First and foremost, it is essential to note that there are two main components of the ESTA cost: the application fee and the processing fee. The application fee is a mandatory charge that every traveler must pay when submitting their ESTA application. This fee is non-refundable and covers the cost of processing the application.

As of December 29, 2021, the application fee for ESTA is $14 per person. This means that each individual, including children, requires their own ESTA and is subject to paying the application fee. It is important to remember that this fee is per application, not per entry. Therefore, if you plan on making multiple trips to the United States within a two-year period, you only need to pay the application fee once.

In addition to the application fee, there is also a processing fee that is charged alongside it. The processing fee is $4 per application, bringing the total cost of ESTA to $18 per person. The processing fee covers the administrative costs associated with the ESTA system.

It is worth noting that these fees are subject to change, so it is always recommended to check the official U.S. government website for the most up-to-date information before submitting your ESTA application.

Now that we have covered the application and processing fees, let’s discuss the payment methods. When applying for ESTA, you have the option to pay by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover) or through PayPal. Cash, checks, and other forms of payment are not accepted.

It is important to remember that the ESTA fees are separate from any other travel-related expenses, such as airfare or accommodation. ESTA is solely for obtaining travel authorization to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

Once you have successfully paid the ESTA fees and submitted your application, the processing time is typically within seconds. However, it is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your departure to allow for any potential delays or issues.

ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can travel to the United States multiple times without the need to reapply for ESTA, as long as your travel is within the limitations of the Visa Waiver Program.

In conclusion, the cost of ESTA is $14 for the application fee and $4 for the processing fee, totaling $18 per person. It is essential to ensure you have the necessary funds available before applying for ESTA, as the fees are non-refundable. Always double-check the official U.S. government website for the most recent information regarding ESTA fees to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.