How to Fill Out an ESTA Application: A Comprehensive Guide

f you’re planning to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), one of the most important steps is to fill out an ESTA application. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system that determines your eligibility to travel to the U.S. without a visa. The application process is simple but requires careful attention to detail. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to fill out an ESTA application, providing tips and insights to make sure you complete it correctly and avoid delays.

What is an ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to enter the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is an online application that can be filled out in advance of your trip. Once approved, your ESTA allows you to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without needing a visa.

Who Needs to Fill Out an ESTA Application?

Travelers who are citizens or nationals of countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are required to fill out an ESTA application before boarding their flight to the United States. If you're planning to stay for 90 days or less for tourism, business, or transit, you will need an ESTA instead of a traditional U.S. visa. Be sure to check if your country is part of the VWP before proceeding with the application.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fill Out an ESTA Application

Filling out an ESTA application is straightforward, but it’s important to ensure that all the details are accurate. Below are the detailed steps you need to follow to successfully fill out your ESTA application.

1. Access the Official ESTA Website

The first step is to visit the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website where the ESTA application form is hosted. Only use the official site to avoid any additional fees or risks associated with unauthorized third-party services.

• Official ESTA Website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Once you're on the website, click on the "Apply" button to begin the application process.

2. Start a New Application

To begin filling out the form, click on "New Application". You will be asked to enter your passport details, including your nationality and the country that issued your passport.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

3. Provide Personal Information

The next section asks for your personal details. This includes:

• Full Name: As it appears in your passport (first, middle, and last name).
• Gender: Male or female.
• Date of Birth: Make sure the format is correct (MM/DD/YYYY).
• Country of Birth: Your country of birth must be correctly indicated.
• Country of Citizenship: Select your country of citizenship from the dropdown menu.

Ensure all information is entered exactly as it appears on your passport to avoid any issues with your ESTA approval.

4. Passport Information

In this section, you will need to input your passport details:

• Passport Number: This is the number printed on your passport’s bio page.
• Passport Issuance Date: The date when your passport was issued.
• Passport Expiration Date: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your intended date of arrival in the U.S.

Remember that your passport must be electronic or machine-readable for you to be eligible for an ESTA.

5. Provide Travel Information

Next, you’ll be asked for travel details:

• Flight Information: This includes your flight number and the airline, though you can fill in this information later if you don’t have it yet. ESTA approval is not contingent on having a flight booked, but it’s good practice to have this ready.
• Address in the U.S.: You’ll need to provide the address of where you’ll be staying while in the U.S. If you don’t know yet, you can enter the address of a hotel or a relative’s address.

6. Answer Eligibility and Security Questions

After providing your travel details, you’ll be prompted to answer a series of security-related questions. These questions assess whether you pose a security risk or have previously violated U.S. immigration laws.

The questions typically include:

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

• Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
• Have you ever been denied entry to the U.S.?
• Do you have a communicable disease, such as tuberculosis?
• Are you involved in terrorist activities or seeking to engage in illegal activities in the U.S.?

These questions are critical for the approval process, so answer them truthfully. If you answer "yes" to any of the questions, your ESTA application may be denied, and you may need to apply for a visa instead.

7. Review Your Application

After filling out all the required sections, the next step is to review your ESTA application thoroughly. Double-check for any spelling mistakes or incorrect information. Mistakes in your application can delay the process or result in a denied ESTA.

8. Pay the ESTA Application Fee

The next step is to pay the required ESTA application fee. As of now, the fee is $21 USD per application, which can be paid via credit card or debit card. Make sure to keep a record of your payment for your reference.

9. Submit Your ESTA Application

Once your payment has been processed, you can submit your ESTA application. Most applicants receive their decision immediately, but some applications may require further processing and may take up to 72 hours.

10. Receive ESTA Approval

After your application is processed, you’ll receive an email notification with your ESTA approval status. If your ESTA is approved, it will be electronically linked to your passport. You do not need to print a physical copy unless you prefer to have one for your records.

Important: If your ESTA is denied, you will be required to apply for a U.S. visa through the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

How Long is an ESTA Valid?

Once approved, an ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can enter the U.S. multiple times without needing to apply for a new ESTA, provided that each stay does not exceed 90 days.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

What Happens if My ESTA Application is Denied?

If your ESTA application is denied, you will receive a notice with instructions. In most cases, you will need to apply for a regular U.S. visa through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You can find out the reason for the denial and submit the required documents for visa processing.

Apply for Your ESTA Now!

Filling out an ESTA application is a quick and easy process, but it’s important to take your time to ensure all details are accurate. If you’re ready to apply for your ESTA and travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, don’t delay—get started today!

Ready to apply for your ESTA? Start your application now by clicking here: CLICK HERE.

Happy travels and enjoy your trip to the United States!

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Previous | Next