FAQ ESTA TO FIND OUT THE ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
If you’re curious about ESTA, you’ll find everything you need to know in this FAQ! It only takes a few moments to understand what ESTA is, what it’s for and how to obtain it. After reading this section, don’t hesitate to order your document online.
WHAT DOES ESTA MEAN?
ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. Introduced in 2009, this authorization simplifies the process of traveling to the USA. It also enables the American authorities to reinforce the country’s security. ESTA is attractive because you can travel to the USA in just a few clicks.
CAN I APPLY FOR AN ESTA?
Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program can benefit from this authorization, subject to a few conditions:
- the stay must not exceed 90 days;
- it must be a business, transit or tourist trip;
- a valid electronic or biometric passport;
- not hold Iraqi, Syrian, Iranian or Sudanese nationality (dual nationality);
- answer the questions on the form “correctly”.
WHICH COUNTRIES ARE PART OF THE VISA WAIVER PROGRAM?
The list of VWP member countries is :
| Germany | Greece | Norway |
| Andorra | Hungary | New Zealand |
| Australia | Ireland | Portugal |
| Austria | Italy | Czech republic |
| Belgium | Iceland | UK |
| Brunei | Japan | Saint Martin |
| Chile | Netherlands | Singapore |
| South Korea | Latvia | Slovakia |
| Croatia | Liechtenstein | Slovenia |
| Denmark | Lithuania | Sweden |
| Spain | Luxemburg | Swiss |
| Estonia | Malta | Taiwan |
| Finland | monaco | |
| France | Poland | Israel (2023) |
HOW DO I ORDER THE ESTA?
It’s very easy to obtain an ESTA online by filling in the form provided. To do this, you’ll need to provide personal information about your identity, your stay and answer a few security questions. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible, within a maximum of 72 hours. You can fill in the form on the official website, or on the websites of private companies who will make the request for you.
HOW LONG CAN I USE AN ESTA AUTHORIZATION?
ESTA authorization can be used several times! In fact, as long as your passport is still valid, you can use the ESTA document for an unlimited two-year period, without exceeding the 3-month stay allowed each time.
DO I NEED AN ESTA FOR OVERLAND PASSAGE?
ESTA authorization is required for all entries into the USA: by land, sea and air.
DO I NEED A PLANE TICKET BEFORE ORDERING AN ESTA?
You don’t need to have your plane (or cruise) ticket before applying for ESTA, but you will need to present it to the immigration officer at the border. Remember that the maximum length of stay is 90 days, and your return or onward ticket must not exceed this period.
HOW MUCH DO I HAVE TO PAY FOR AN ESTA?
ESTA is not free. Nevertheless, the cost is much lower than that of a visa, regardless of the method used to obtain it. Please allow US$21 for authorization. This amount corresponds to the processing fee. Additional charges may apply if you need assistance ordering the document.
HOW TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN A VISA AND AN ESTA?
What they have in common is that they both allow you to travel to the USA legally. The ESTA is not a visa, however, but a travel authorization for eligible persons. A visa is required as soon as you plan to work, do an internship or live in the United States, or if the duration of your stay exceeds 90 days. Obtaining a visa is more expensive and the formalities more complicated.
IS THERE A RISK THAT MY ESTA APPLICATION WILL BE REJECTED?
We cannot give you 100% assurance that your ESTA authorization will be validated. However, refusals are very rare if the conditions are met. To avoid being turned down, all you have to do is be careful when filling in the form; a typo can be grounds for refusal, so be vigilant when making your request. A new request can be made if you think the refusal is due to an input error. If this is not the case, you need to contact the American embassy to apply for a visa.
ONCE I’VE GOT ESTA, AM I GUARANTEED TO SET FOOT ON AMERICAN SOIL?
Although the ESTA document is essential for entering the USA, it does not guarantee that you will pass through customs. Upon arrival in the USA, all passengers undergo identity and baggage checks. Any traveler with an ESTA may be refused entry, for example if you are carrying prohibited or dangerous items. The document simply authorizes you to enter the United States.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY ESTA IF I CHANGE PASSPORT?
ESTA is linked to the passport. Any change to the latter renders the travel authorization null and void. You must then apply for a new ESTA. To do so, follow the same steps as above: complete the online form and pay the required fee.
Your question remains unanswered after reading this article? Don’t hesitate to contact us for further information, and check out our help, news and glossary sections