ESTA is a computer-based system used for traveling to the United States for tourism, business or transit. Applying for ESTA is mandatory for citizens of countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program, and must be done prior to boarding a flight or ship bound for the US.
The visa waiver program is a U.S. government initiative that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. It was created to promote tourism and business travel to the United States, and currently includes 39 countries, primarily in western Europe and parts of Asia.
You can submit your ESTA application form digitally via our website www.usa-esta-online.com Our platform offers a convenient and secure application process
To apply for Esta you must be a citizen of one of the 41 Visa Waiver Program countries Esta needs to collect biographic information and answers to security-related questions, which are then used to determine if you are eligible for visa-free travel.
Andorra Australia Austria Belgium Brunei Chile Croatia Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Japan Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Poland Portugal San Marino Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain Sweden Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom
As of October 19th, 2023, Israeli citizens can apply for ESTA and travel visa-free to the USA.
You can check your ESTA Status about 72 hours after your ESTA application and find out whether or not your application was approved.
| Application | Required documents | Wait time | Costs | Maximum stay | Permitted activities | Validity | |
| ESTA | Online | Passport | 72 hours | $52 | 90 Days | Tourism, Business, visiting relatives, Transit, medical treatment | 1 year |
| B-VISA | Online + Interview at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate | Passport, Form DS-260, Photos | ~ 21 workdays | $160 | 180 Days | Tourism, Business, visiting relatives, medical treatment, enrollment in a short course of study | Up to 10 years |
Both ESTA and B-visas allow foreign nationals to visit the US for purposes such as tourism, business, or medical treatment. ESTA is only applicable for citizens of select countries and is generally intended for short-term visits up to 90 days. A B-visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa that allows for longer stays of up to 180 days that may have additional restrictions or requirements depending on the purpose of your visit.
To apply for a B visa, also known as a visitor visa, you must follow these steps:
Visa-free entry to the United States is usually not possible if:
With ESTA you are are allowed to visit the United States for tourism, business, or medical purposes. You can stay for a maximum of 90 days, but you cannot work or study while in the country. As an ESTA holder you can travel to all 50 states, as well as to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam. However, traveling to other U.S. territories or other countries outside of those listed requires a separate visa. ESTA does not guarantee you entry into the United States, as a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer has final authority to permit or deny entry.
ESTA does not require you to have travel plans. However, you will be asked to provide information about your intended travel, such as the address of your first accommodation in the US and your purpose for traveling, during the ESTA application process. It is always recommended that you have at least tentative travel plans before entering the US.
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How long can you stay in the US with ESTA?
ESTA allows you to stay in the United States for a maximum of 90 days. If you plan to stay any longer, you must apply for a different type of visa beforehand.
Is ESTA required for transit?
Yes, ESTA is required even if you are only entering the USA in transit to another country.
How long is ESTA valid?
ESTA is valid for 1 year or until your passport expires. During the 1 year period you can enter US without having to re-apply for ESTA.
Do children need an ESTA to travel to the United States?
Yes, children of all ages need an ESTA as travel authorization to visit the United States. The ESTA application can be completed by the parents or by the guardian of a child who is travelling to the US. Children must have their own valid passport in order to qualify for ESTA.
When do I have to apply for an ESTA?
It is important to apply for the ESTA at least 72 hours before departure to avoid any travel disruptions.
How can I check my ESTA Status?
As soon as your ESTA status changes, you will be informed via e-mail.
What activities are allowed with ESTA?
ESTA allows you to enter the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days.
Is it possible to work or study in the US with ESTA?
No, ESTA only allows you to enter the US for tourism or business purposes. If you plan to work or study in the US, you must explore other visa options available.
Does ESTA allow you to undergo medical treatment in the US?
Yes, ESTA allows you to undergo medical treatment in the US. The United States can provide world-class medical treatment to patients from all over the world. The country boasts some of the best hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities in the world, with highly skilled doctors and advanced equipment.
Do I need ESTA to enter the USA when traveling by land ?
Yes, you need to apply for an ESTA even when entering the USA by land. As of 2023 the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will no longer issue Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, to travelers arriving to the United States by land. This change is expected to reduce the amount of time spent at the border and make the process smoother for travelers.