Print your ESTA before leaving for the USA

The ESTA form is an official document for entering the USA. It comes with an identification number. To guarantee the security of travelers to the USA, the Department of Homeland Security has developed this alternative visa system.

Who can obtain an ESTA number?

Although it has been made easier to obtain an ESTA number, not everyone can obtain one. In order to benefit from ESTA, you need to meet a few conditions. First of all, you must be from one of the countries covered by the Visa Waiver Program. The program covers some twenty European countries, including France and Belgium, as well as a number of Asian countries.

Secondly, your stay in the USA must not exceed 90 days. The last condition concerns the reason for the trip: the only valid reasons are tourism, transit and business. If you meet these conditions, you can then submit your application toobtain your ESTA.

How do I get an ESTA number?

If you meet all the requirements for obtaining an ESTA number, all you have to do is fill in the online form. All you have to do is choose one of the many specialized sites. The procedure is as follows: you will be asked a series of questions about your identity, the purpose of your trip, your U.S. immigration history, your criminal record and your state of health.

The aim is to establish your profile to ensure that you do not represent a threat to American territory. Once you have completed the questionnaire, you will be asked to pay the processing fee, which is essential for validating your application.

Prices range from 55 to 80 euros on specialized French-language sites. These sites feature a secure payment system. Once payment has been made, all you have to do is register your request and wait for a reply.

Print ESTA number

The answer shouldn’t be long in coming; in most cases, it arrives within minutes of registration. There are three possible answers: the answer may be negative, in which case you’ll have to apply for a visa at the embassy (or reapply for ESTA if the reason for the refusal is a typo when filling in the form). The response may be pending, in which case you will have to wait another 72 hours for a definitive answer.

Your request may be accepted, in which case you will receive your ESTA number. Although the entire procedure is carried out online, it’s a good idea to print out your ESTA number to make boarding easier.