The United States of America remains one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, welcoming over 75 million international visitors annually. From the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the sun-kissed beaches of California, from the vibrant music scene of Chicago to the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, the USA offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences that captivate travelers from every corner of the globe.
For citizens of 41 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), entering the United States has never been easier thanks to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your ESTA, understanding eligibility requirements, navigating the application process, and making the most of your American adventure in 2026.
Whether you're planning to explore the iconic landmarks of Washington D.C., experience the entertainment capital of Las Vegas, immerse yourself in the cultural melting pot of Miami, or discover the tech innovation hub of San Francisco, this guide provides all the essential information you need to ensure a smooth entry into the United States.
What is ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2009, ESTA has revolutionized the way millions of international travelers gain entry to America.
Unlike a traditional visa, which requires an in-person interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, an ESTA can be obtained entirely online within minutes. The authorization is electronically linked to your passport and verified by airlines at check-in and by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers upon arrival in the United States.
It's crucial to understand that an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. It simply authorizes you to board a carrier (airline or cruise ship) traveling to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Final admission decisions are made by CBP officers at the port of entry, who verify your identity, review your travel documents, and determine whether you meet all entry requirements.
The ESTA system has processed over 100 million applications since its inception, making it one of the most widely used electronic travel authorization systems in the world. Its efficiency and convenience have made visiting the United States significantly more accessible for citizens of participating countries.
ESTA at a Glance
Validity: 2 years or until passport expires (whichever comes first)
Maximum stay: Up to 90 days per visit
Cost: $21 USD (government fee)
Processing: Usually approved within 72 hours (often minutes)
Purpose: Tourism, business, transit
Multiple entries: Unlimited entries during validity period
Required for: Air and sea travel to the USA under VWP
Eligible countries: 41 Visa Waiver Program nations
Understanding the Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a bilateral agreement between the United States and 41 participating countries that allows citizens of these nations to travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. The program was established to strengthen security and facilitate legitimate travel and trade.
To participate in the VWP, countries must meet rigorous security criteria set by the U.S. government, including information-sharing agreements, low visa refusal rates, timely reporting of lost and stolen passports, and robust law enforcement and security practices. The program is regularly reviewed, and countries can be added or removed based on their compliance with these standards.
The VWP benefits both travelers and the United States. For travelers, it eliminates the need for lengthy visa applications, embassy appointments, and interview processes. For the U.S., it encourages tourism and business travel while maintaining strong security through advanced passenger screening and information sharing with partner countries.
However, the VWP comes with specific restrictions. Travelers cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days, cannot change their status (such as switching to a work visa) while in the U.S., and have limited appeal rights if denied entry. If you need to stay longer than 90 days or plan to work or study in the United States, you must apply for the appropriate visa category.
United States
Capital: Washington D.C.
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: English
Timezone: UTC-5 to UTC-10 (6 time zones)
Processing: Usually within 72 hours
Quick Facts
- Best time: Spring (Apr-May) and Fall (Sep-Oct)
- Third largest country by population and area
- Power: 120V, Type A/B plugs
- Country code: +1
- Emergency number: 911
41 ESTA Eligible Countries
As of 2026, citizens of 41 countries are eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program using an ESTA. These countries span Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other regions, representing some of America's closest allies and trading partners.
If your country is not listed below, you will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate. Some travelers from VWP countries may also be ineligible for ESTA due to previous travel to certain countries, criminal history, or other factors.
ESTA Eligible Countries by Region
| Europe | Asia-Pacific | Americas & Others |
|---|---|---|
| Andorra | Australia | Chile |
| Austria | Brunei | Israel |
| Belgium | Japan | |
| Croatia | New Zealand | |
| Czech Republic | Singapore | |
| Denmark | South Korea | |
| Estonia | Taiwan* | |
| Finland | ||
| France | ||
| Germany | ||
| Greece | ||
| Hungary | ||
| Iceland | ||
| Ireland | ||
| Italy | ||
| Latvia | ||
| Liechtenstein | ||
| Lithuania | ||
| Luxembourg | ||
| Malta | ||
| Monaco | ||
| Netherlands | ||
| Norway | ||
| Poland | ||
| Portugal | ||
| San Marino | ||
| Slovakia | ||
| Slovenia | ||
| Spain | ||
| Sweden | ||
| Switzerland | ||
| United Kingdom |
Taiwan Eligibility Note
Taiwan citizens must hold a passport issued by Taiwan that includes a personal identification number to be eligible for ESTA. The passport must be an e-Passport with an electronic chip containing biometric information.
ESTA Requirements: What You Need
Before applying for an ESTA, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements and have the necessary information ready. The application process is straightforward, but accuracy is essential to avoid delays or denials.
Passport Requirements
- Valid e-Passport (electronic passport with chip) from an eligible country
- Passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay
- Machine-readable passport zone at the bottom of the data page
- Passport must not be damaged or altered
- Your name in the passport must match your booking exactly
Personal Information Required
- Full legal name as it appears in your passport
- Date of birth, gender, and country of birth
- Passport number, issue date, and expiration date
- Country of citizenship and national identification number (if applicable)
- Valid email address for receiving confirmation
- Phone number and current residential address
- Parents' names (as listed on travel documents if applicable)
- Emergency contact information in your home country
Travel Information Required
- Purpose of your trip (tourism, business, or transit)
- U.S. contact information or address where you'll be staying
- Flight information (carrier and flight number if known)
- Employer information (name, address, phone number)
- Previous U.S. travel history (if applicable)
Eligibility Questions
The ESTA application includes several eligibility questions about your background. You must answer these truthfully, as false information can result in permanent ineligibility for the Visa Waiver Program and potential legal consequences.
- Health conditions: Questions about communicable diseases
- Criminal history: Arrests, convictions, and involvement in criminal activities
- Drug-related offenses: Any violations of laws relating to controlled substances
- Terrorism: Involvement in terrorist activities or organizations
- Immigration violations: Previous visa denials, deportations, or overstays
- Travel to restricted countries: Visits to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen since March 2011
Important: Travel to Restricted Countries
If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, you may not be eligible for ESTA and will need to apply for a visa instead. Exceptions exist for diplomatic and military personnel, journalists, and legitimate humanitarian workers. Dual nationals of these countries are also generally ineligible for ESTA.
How to Apply for ESTA: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for an ESTA is a straightforward online process that can typically be completed in 15-20 minutes. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is processed smoothly and approved without delays.
- Verify your eligibility — Use our visa checker to confirm your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program and that you meet all requirements
- Gather your documents — Have your valid e-Passport, email address, credit/debit card, and U.S. address ready
- Start your application — Access the ESTA application through DoVisa or the official CBP website
- Choose application type — Select individual application or group application (for families traveling together)
- Enter passport information — Input your passport number, issue date, expiration date, and country of issuance exactly as shown
- Provide personal details — Complete your full name, date of birth, country of birth, email, and phone number
- Add travel information — Enter your U.S. point of contact, address where you'll stay, and emergency contact
- Answer eligibility questions — Honestly respond to all background and security questions
- Review your application — Carefully verify every field for accuracy before submitting
- Pay the application fee — Complete the $21 USD payment using credit card, debit card, or PayPal
- Save your application number — Record your application number to check status and for future reference
- Wait for approval — Most applications are approved within 72 hours; many receive instant approval
Application Timing Tip
Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure. While most applications are approved within minutes, some may require additional processing time. Applying early gives you time to address any issues or apply for a visa if your ESTA is denied.
ESTA Costs and Processing Time
Understanding the costs and processing times associated with ESTA helps you plan your trip effectively and budget appropriately for your U.S. travel.
ESTA Fees and Processing Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Government Application Fee | $21 USD (mandatory) |
| DoVisa Service (optional) | $29.99 USD (includes expert review & 24/7 support) |
| Standard Processing Time | Usually within 72 hours |
| Expedited Processing | Often approved within minutes |
| Validity Period | 2 years or until passport expires |
| Entries Allowed | Multiple (unlimited during validity) |
| Maximum Stay per Visit | 90 days |
| Renewal Cost | $21 USD (same as new application) |
The $21 ESTA fee consists of two components: a $4 processing fee (charged to all applicants) and a $17 authorization fee (charged only if approved). If your ESTA is denied, you'll only be charged the $4 processing fee.
Payment can be made using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), debit cards, or PayPal. The fee is non-refundable, so ensure all your information is correct before submitting.
ESTA Status Types
- Authorization Approved: You are authorized to travel to the United States under the VWP. Print or save your confirmation.
- Authorization Pending: Your application requires additional review. Check back within 72 hours for a decision.
- Travel Not Authorized: Your ESTA has been denied. You must apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Get Your USA ESTA Today
Common ESTA Mistakes to Avoid
Even small errors on your ESTA application can lead to delays, denials, or problems at the U.S. border. Learning from common mistakes made by other travelers helps ensure your application is processed smoothly.
Critical Application Errors
These mistakes can result in ESTA denial or entry refusal. Review your application carefully before submitting to avoid these common pitfalls.
- Name discrepancies: Your name must match your passport EXACTLY, including middle names, hyphens, apostrophes, and accents. Even small variations can cause problems at immigration.
- Passport number errors: Double-check every character. Commonly confused characters include O and 0, I and 1, and 8 and B.
- Wrong passport selection: If you hold dual citizenship, apply with the passport you'll use to travel and enter the U.S.
- Expired passport: Your passport must be valid for your entire stay. If it expires during your planned trip, renew it before applying for ESTA.
- Incomplete information: All required fields must be filled out completely. Missing information can delay processing or result in denial.
- Dishonest answers: Always answer eligibility questions truthfully. False statements are a federal offense and can result in permanent visa ineligibility.
- Applying too late: While most ESTAs are approved quickly, apply at least 72 hours before travel to allow for any unexpected delays.
- Not updating after new passport: ESTA is linked to your specific passport. A new passport requires a new ESTA application.
- Using unofficial websites: Many third-party websites charge excessive fees. Use official government sites or trusted services like DoVisa.
- Forgetting to check status: If your application shows 'Pending,' check back regularly. Don't assume approval without confirmation.
ESTA Myths Debunked
Misinformation about ESTA and the Visa Waiver Program is widespread. Let's separate fact from fiction by addressing the most common myths that confuse travelers.
An approved ESTA guarantees entry into the United States
An ESTA authorization only permits you to board a carrier (airplane or ship) destined for the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Final admission is always determined by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry. They can deny entry even with a valid ESTA if they determine you don't meet entry requirements, pose a security risk, or have misrepresented your travel intentions. Approximately 0.1% of VWP travelers are denied entry at the border each year.
ESTA allows you to stay in the US for 2 years
The 2-year validity of ESTA is commonly misunderstood. While your ESTA authorization remains valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires), each visit to the United States is limited to a maximum of 90 days. You cannot 'reset' this by making a quick trip to Canada or Mexico. CBP officers track your cumulative time in North America, and attempting to live in the U.S. through repeated short visits can result in entry denial and ESTA revocation.
You can work or study in the US with ESTA
ESTA is strictly for tourism, business visits (meetings, conferences, negotiations), and transit. Any form of employment - paid or unpaid - is prohibited under the Visa Waiver Program. Similarly, academic study is not permitted. If you wish to work, you need a work visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.) with employer sponsorship. For study, you need an F-1 or M-1 student visa. Violating these terms can result in deportation and future visa ineligibility.
If your ESTA is denied, you can never visit the United States
An ESTA denial does not mean you're permanently barred from the United States. It simply means you don't qualify for the Visa Waiver Program and must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa instead. During the visa interview at a U.S. embassy, you can explain your situation and provide additional documentation. Many travelers with denied ESTAs successfully obtain visitor visas. However, if your ESTA was denied due to serious criminal history or security concerns, visa approval may be more challenging.
Travel Tips for the United States
Make the most of your American adventure with these essential travel tips from our experts who have helped thousands of travelers navigate their U.S. journeys.
Before You Travel
- Print your ESTA confirmation: While not required, having a printed copy provides peace of mind and backup
- Complete CBP Form 6059B: This customs declaration form is required for all international arrivals
- Enroll in Global Entry: Pre-approved travelers can skip long immigration lines ($100 for 5 years)
- Purchase travel insurance: U.S. healthcare is extremely expensive - comprehensive travel insurance is essential
- Notify your bank: Inform your bank of your travel dates to prevent card blocks for 'suspicious' foreign transactions
- Check visa requirements for nearby countries: If planning side trips to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, verify entry requirements
At the Airport and Immigration
- Arrive early: Allow at least 3 hours for international departures and 2 hours for immigration clearance on arrival
- Use Automated Passport Control (APC): Available at major airports for VWP travelers - speeds up the process
- Be prepared for questions: CBP officers may ask about your trip purpose, length of stay, accommodation, and return ticket
- Have documents ready: Keep your passport, ESTA confirmation, return flight details, and hotel bookings accessible
- Declare everything: Failure to declare food, agricultural products, or large amounts of currency can result in fines
- Stay calm and polite: Immigration officers have significant discretion - being respectful and honest is essential
During Your Stay
- Currency: The U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted everywhere. Credit cards are preferred; many places don't accept cash
- Tipping culture: Tipping is expected - 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per bag for hotel staff
- Sales tax: Prices don't include sales tax (varies by state, 0-10%). Your total will be higher than listed prices
- Transportation: The U.S. is car-centric. Outside major cities, renting a car is often necessary
- Healthcare: If you need medical care, urgent care centers are cheaper than emergency rooms for non-emergencies
- Cell service: Purchase a prepaid SIM (T-Mobile, AT&T) or international roaming plan for connectivity
- 911 for emergencies: This number works nationwide for police, fire, and medical emergencies
Money-Saving Tip: CityPASS
Major cities offer CityPASS bundles that include admission to top attractions at 40-50% off regular prices. Available in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other cities. Purchase online before your trip to skip ticket lines.
Top US Destinations for International Visitors
The United States offers incredible diversity, from world-class cities to breathtaking natural wonders. Here are the must-visit destinations that showcase the best of America.
New York City, New York
The Big Apple needs no introduction. New York City is the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, catch a Broadway show, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, explore Central Park, and experience the energy of Times Square. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island offer powerful reminders of America's immigrant heritage. From world-class dining to iconic landmarks, NYC delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Best time to visit: April-June or September-November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. December offers magical holiday decorations but extreme cold.
Los Angeles, California
The entertainment capital of the world offers year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and Hollywood glamour. Visit Universal Studios and Disneyland, explore the Getty Center, walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and relax on Venice Beach. LA's diverse neighborhoods - from trendy Silver Lake to upscale Beverly Hills - each offer unique experiences. Don't miss the iconic Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and the famous Hollywood sign.
Best time to visit: March-May or September-November. Summer can be hot and crowded; June often has 'June Gloom' coastal fog.
Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City is an architectural masterpiece with world-class museums, deep-dish pizza, and a vibrant music scene. Take an architecture boat tour on the Chicago River, visit the Art Institute (one of the world's best museums), explore Millennium Park's Cloud Gate sculpture, and catch a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field. Chicago's diverse neighborhoods offer authentic cultural experiences, from Pilsen's Mexican heritage to Chinatown's authentic cuisine.
Best time to visit: June-September for warm weather and outdoor festivals. Winter is brutally cold but offers lower prices and holiday charm.
More Must-See Destinations
- San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, cable cars, Fisherman's Wharf, Silicon Valley nearby
- Las Vegas: World-class entertainment, casinos, shows, and easy access to Grand Canyon and national parks
- Miami: Art Deco architecture, beautiful beaches, Cuban culture in Little Havana, gateway to the Caribbean
- Washington D.C.: Free Smithsonian museums, monuments, the White House, and rich American history
- Orlando: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, family-friendly entertainment capital
- Hawaii: Tropical paradise with stunning beaches, volcanoes, and unique Polynesian culture
- Grand Canyon: One of Earth's most awe-inspiring natural wonders - a must-see for any visitor
Why Apply with DoVisa?
Expert review of every application before submission
Real-time error detection and correction assistance
Dedicated customer support available 24/7
Step-by-step guided application process
Secure 256-bit encrypted payment processing
Instant digital delivery of your confirmation
Application status tracking and notifications
Money-back guarantee if your ESTA is denied
Trusted by over 100,000 travelers to the USA
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ESTA processing take?
What is the cost of an ESTA application?
Can I apply for ESTA if I have a criminal record?
What happens if my ESTA is denied?
Can I travel to Canada or Mexico with my ESTA?
Do I need to print my ESTA approval?
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?
What if I get a new passport after my ESTA is approved?
Can I work remotely while visiting the US on ESTA?
Is ESTA required for land crossings from Canada or Mexico?
Can I apply for my family members using one application?
What documents should I bring to show at immigration?
How early can I apply for ESTA before my trip?
What is the difference between ESTA and a US visa?
Can I transit through the US with ESTA?
What if my flight is delayed and I miss my return date?
Is my ESTA valid if I change my name?
Can I check my ESTA status online?
What happens at US immigration when I arrive?
Are there any items I cannot bring into the US?
Can I use ESTA for medical treatment in the US?
What is Global Entry and should I get it?
Is it safe to use third-party websites for ESTA?
How do I know if my passport has an electronic chip?
Can I reapply if my ESTA expires while in the US?
Ready to Explore America?
The United States offers an extraordinary tapestry of experiences - from the towering skyscrapers of New York to the natural majesty of the Grand Canyon, from the sun-drenched beaches of California to the historic monuments of Washington D.C. With your ESTA in hand, you're ready to discover why millions of travelers choose America as their destination each year.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization makes visiting the USA accessible and straightforward for citizens of 41 Visa Waiver Program countries. For just $21 and a few minutes of your time, you can secure authorization that's valid for 2 years and allows unlimited entries for tourism, business, or transit.
Whether you're planning your first American adventure or returning to explore new regions, DoVisa is here to make your ESTA application process smooth, fast, and stress-free. Our expert team reviews every application, our system catches errors before submission, and our 24/7 support team is always ready to assist.
Apply for your ESTA today and start planning the trip of a lifetime to the United States of America!
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Comments(18)
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UK passport holder here - applied for ESTA through DoVisa last week and got approved in literally 3 minutes! Planning my first trip to NYC and LA next month. This guide was incredibly helpful for understanding the whole process.
Coming from France, I was worried about the application process but it turned out to be so simple. The 2-year validity is amazing - already planning my second US trip! Quick question though: does my 90 days reset if I go to Canada for a weekend?
Italian here planning a road trip from NYC to Miami! The section about what to bring to immigration was super useful. Already got my ESTA sorted through DoVisa - the whole process took less than 15 minutes including reading everything carefully.
I'm a digital nomad from Germany. Can I really work remotely from a coffee shop in NYC while on ESTA? The article mentions it's a gray area but I'm confused about what's actually allowed.
Japanese passport holder - the ESTA process was incredibly fast! Got approved instantly and the confirmation came to my email within seconds. The myth-busting section was really helpful, I had no idea that an approved ESTA doesn't guarantee entry.
I visited Iran for tourism in 2019 - does this really disqualify me from ESTA? That seems quite harsh for what was just a holiday!
Just used my ESTA for the first time flying into LAX from Australia. Immigration took about 20 minutes, officer was friendly and asked basic questions about my trip. The Automated Passport Control kiosk was a lifesaver - much faster than the regular line!
Swedish traveler here! The comparison table of eligible countries was really helpful. One tip from my experience: make sure the name on your ESTA matches your flight booking EXACTLY, including middle names. I had a small hiccup at check-in because of this.
I have dual citizenship - Taiwan and another country. Which passport should I use for ESTA? Taiwan is eligible but my other country isn't.
Spanish passport holder - booked a 2-week road trip through California! This guide convinced me to get Global Entry. $100 for 5 years is totally worth it if you travel to the US regularly. The application was straightforward, interview took 10 minutes.
German here - had a minor shoplifting charge from 20 years ago when I was a teenager. Will this affect my ESTA? I've been worried about applying.
Norwegian passport - just got back from 3 weeks in the US (NYC + Chicago + Vegas). Immigration at JFK was smooth, the officer just asked where I was staying and for how long. Pro tip: have your hotel confirmation ready on your phone, it speeds things up!
French citizen planning to propose to my girlfriend in Central Park! Is there anything special I need to know about bringing an engagement ring through customs? Don't want any surprises at immigration.
Korean passport holder here. The tip about CityPASS saved me so much money in New York! Got the NYC CityPASS and visited Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, and more for almost half the regular price. Highly recommend!
Irish passport - applied through DoVisa on Monday, approved Tuesday morning. The whole process was seamless and the guide helped me prepare all the information I needed before starting. First time visiting the States, heading to Boston and New York!
Polish citizen - just a reminder for fellow Europeans: don't forget about ETIAS coming soon for Schengen countries visiting the US! But for now, ESTA is still the way to go. DoVisa made my application super easy, approved same day.
Chilean here - we're one of the newer countries in the VWP! So grateful we don't need to do the full visa process anymore. ESTA took 5 minutes, got approved instantly. The US is such a big country - any recommendations for a first-time visitor with 2 weeks?
Quick question - I applied for my ESTA last night and it was approved within 2 hours! Planning a 3-week road trip from LA to San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway. Is there anything special I need to know about driving with an ESTA? Also, any must-see stops along Highway 1?