All travellers to the USA must have an ESTA

What is an ESTA?

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), is a compulsory pre-checking scheme enabling the US Department of Homeland Security to determine whether an individual is eligible to enter the United States before they fly.

All travellers now require a valid ESTA which is meant to replace the customs form (I-94W) previously completed during the flight and presented at US customs on arrival.

Who should apply for an ESTA?

The ESTA ruling applies to anyone travelling to the US under the visa waiver scheme, which allows British Citizen passport holders to visit the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

When should you apply for ESTA?

ESTA applications should be submitted online as soon as soon as possible – even if you don’t yet know the date of travel, or it is only suspected that the traveller may be going to the States, sometime in the future.

It is recommended that the application is submitted at least 72 hours before departure, however the system is meant to accommodate last minute travel. Applications can be made after 72 hours before travel but they run the risk that approval may not be received by the time the traveler departs. This could be particularly effect travelers flying to the US in an emergency.

How long is an ESTA valid for?

ESTAs are valid for 2 years and will allow multiple visits to the US within that time period. You must reapply for a new ESTA when it expires.

How much does an ESTA cost?

ESTA’s are FREE. Beware of web sites who charge for information and for submitting applications.

What do you need to include in your ESTA application?

Travellers are required to enter their personal information into an online form including name, DOB and passport details, as well as travel information such as the flight number and destination address in the US (if known at the time). It takes about five minutes to complete.

What happens to ESTA applications?

Once the online application has been completed and, assuming it is satisfactory, the system will normally respond with an approval very quickly. Travellers (and Travel Managers) should make a note of the ESTA approval number in case they need to access their application later – such as updating a travel itinerary. Some applications may take up to 72 hours to approve whilst data is checked. Currently there is no charge for an ESTA application and no more information is sought than has been required under the old I-94W system.

Change of name or marital status?

In order to register a change of name or marital status, a new ESTA application must be completed.

Who can complete an ESTA?

Each person (including family members) travelling is required to complete an ESTA application. Third parties, such as Travel Organisers and Managers are permitted to enter data into ESTA. However, the third party must be completely certain as to the accuracy of such entries. Any inaccuracies will be taken up with the applicant - NOT the third party and the applicant remains totally responsible for their own records.

What happens if you don’t know the US destination address or flight details yet?

ESTA applications can still be made without a full address and flights. In the short term flight details are not required and a generic address only will suffice. E.g. City and State. Applicants should register full address & flight details once known.

What about multi visits and itinerary changes?

Updating ESTA data for repeat visits within the 2 year ESTA duration is recommended but is not mandatory. Upon entry into the USA, the Customs and Border Protection Officer may ask additional questions if a traveller’s current itinerary differs from information submitted in the ESTA application. However, updating ESTA with new arrival details and first night’s stay information could save time for the traveller at the point of entry and is likely to result in fewer questions.

APIS and ESTA?

Travellers who have been to the USA before, will know that additional information, called APIS, is already required relating to the traveller’s journey. As ESTA & APIS data cover two different requirements, both systems have to run independently. At some point the two may be merged so that duplicate information does not have to be provided but currently there is no planned date for such a change.

What happens if you don’t have an ESTA?

Any travellers refused entry because they do not hold the correct travel documents – will not be covered by their travel insurance. This means loss of air fares, accommodation, and car hire.

For ESTA applications – https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.