Apply for ESTA for the United States in 2026

Apply for your ESTA quickly and confidently with VisaSyst. Our simplified application helps you avoid common mistakes that could result in ESTA denial.

With a high approval rate and a 24/7 contact form, you can complete your application with peace of mind.

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VisaSyst is an independent service provider and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. We offer professional travel document assistance for a service fee.

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Why Travelers Use VisaSyst

VisaSyst is an independent private service and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. We help travelers prepare their ESTA application with a simplified form, expert review, and support throughout the process.

The final decision on every ESTA application is made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

VisaSyst is rated 4.5/5 Excellent, based on 14K+ Trustpilot reviews. We’re here to make your ESTA application hassle-free.

Why Apply for Your ESTA With VisaSyst?

You can apply for ESTA directly through the U.S. government website. However, the official system can be strict, confusing, and unforgiving of errors.

VisaSyst provides tools and expert assistance designed to simplify the process and reduce the risk of mistakes.

  • experience

    Error prevention with expert review

    The U.S. ESTA system automatically processes applications. Even a small typo in your passport number or personal information can lead to delays or ESTA denial.

    VisaSyst specialists review your application before submission. This helps to detect mistakes and ensure your information matches your passport.

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    Application support and language assistance

    VisaSyst provides continuous assistance throughout the process, in 15+ languages. This helps you complete the form correctly and answer any questions.

    You can also save your progress and continue your application later if needed.

What Is the ESTA for the United States?

Here’s a quick overview of the ESTA travel authorization:

Type of documentElectronic travel authorization
PurposeTourism, short business trips, or transit
Validity2 years (or until passport expires)
Entries allowedMultiple entries
Maximum stayUp to 90 days per visit

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows eligible travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries to visit the U.S. without a visa.

ESTA is intended for tourism, short business trips, or transit through the U.S.

Once approved, the ESTA is electronically linked to your passport. It allows you to travel to the U.S. multiple times within the validity period.

Eligibility: Who Needs the ESTA and Who Is Exempt?

Find out in the sections below about ESTA eligibility.

Important: U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents, including Green Card holders, do not need an ESTA. If you hold a valid U.S. passport or Green Card, you do not need to apply.

  • Who needs an ESTA

    You must apply for an ESTA if you:

    • Are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country
    • Are traveling for tourism, short-term business, or transit
    • Plan to stay 90 days or less
    • Are arriving by air, sea, or land
    Apply for ESTA

  • Who does NOT need an ESTA

    You do NOT need an ESTA if you:

    • Are a U.S. citizen
    • Are a U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder)
    • Already hold a valid U.S. visa (such as B1/B2)
    • Are a Canadian citizen traveling for tourism
    Apply for B1B2 Apply for i90

  • Who is NOT eligible for ESTA

    Some travelers cannot use the Visa Waiver Program and must apply for a traditional visa instead.

    You may not be eligible for ESTA if you:

    • Have traveled to certain countries such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea, or Cuba after specific dates
    • Have been denied entry or deported from the U.S.
    • Have previously overstayed in the U.S.
    • Have serious criminal convictions

If any of these apply, you’ll likely need to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa instead of ESTA.

Visa Waiver Program Countries Eligible for ESTA

Citizens or nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries can apply for ESTA when traveling to the United States for tourism, short-term business, or transit. The current Visa Waiver Program countries are:

Europe:

  • Andorra
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Croatia
  • Czechia
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • 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

Asia-Pacific:

  • Australia
  • Brunei
  • Israel
  • Japan
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan

Americas and the Middle East:

  • Chile
  • Qatar

If your country is not part of the Visa Waiver Program, you usually need to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa instead of ESTA.

For the United Kingdom, only British citizens with the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man are eligible under the VWP.

For Taiwan, ESTA eligibility follows the U.S. government’s specific VWP treatment of Taiwan.

Requirements and Documentation for ESTA

To apply for an ESTA, you’ll need a few basic items.

  • Valid biometric passport: Your passport must be an electronic passport (e-passport) with a digital chip and issued by a Visa Waiver Program country.
  • Contact information: A valid email address, home address, phone number, and emergency contact.
  • Travel and employment information: You may be asked to provide details about your travel plans and employment history.
  • Payment method: A valid credit card, debit card, or PayPal account to pay the government fee and service fee.

ESTA Processing Times and Fees

Here we explain VisaSyst’s processing times and fees for a U.S. ESTA.

ESTA processing times

ESTA is typically approved within minutes to 72 hours, although some applications may require additional review.

We offer 3 different processing options, so you can get your ESTA exactly when you need it:

  • secureStandard

    2 days

  • simplified_form_iconPriority

    6 hours

  • experienceExpress

    1 hour

Just select the option you need when you complete your application.

ESTA fees

The total cost includes 2 fees:

  • U.S. Government fee: $21 (mandatory ESTA fee)
  • VisaSyst service fee: Covers application review, priority processing options, and customer support.

A complete price breakdown is shown before payment, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

How the ESTA Application Process Works with VisaSyst

Applying for ESTA with VisaSyst is fast and straightforward.

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    Step 1: Complete online form

    Fill out our simplified questionnaire with your personal information, passport details, and travel information. Helpful tooltips guide you through each section.

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    Step 2: Choose speed & pay

    Select the processing time that fits your travel schedule and complete payment through our secure platform. You’ll see a full breakdown of fees before confirming.

  • email_icon

    Step 3: Review & Approval

    Our specialists review your application for errors before submission. Once approved, your ESTA authorization is sent directly to your email.

More Travel Permits to Enter the United States

If you don't need an ESTA, check whether you need one of these travel authorizations to enter the United States.

FAQs About ESTA

Do I need to print my approved ESTA?

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Your ESTA authorization is electronically linked to your passport. However, it’s recommended to carry a printed or digital copy when traveling in case the airline requests it during check-in.

What happens if I renew or lose my passport?

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Your ESTA cannot be transferred to a new passport. If your passport expires, is replaced, or is lost, you must apply for a new ESTA authorization.

Can I work in the United States with an ESTA?

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No. ESTA only allows travel for tourism, short business activities, or transit. Employment in the U.S. requires a specific work visa.

How long does it take for an ESTA to be approved?

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With VisaSyst, standard processing takes up to 2 days. For urgent requests, we also offer 6-hour Priority and 1-hour Express services. Some applications may require additional review by U.S. authorities.

What does it mean if my ESTA is under review or authorization is pending?

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It means U.S. authorities are carrying out additional checks. This is not a denial, so you need to wait until a final decision is made. Most ESTA decisions are issued within 72 hours.

How far in advance should I apply for ESTA?

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With VisaSyst, we recommend applying at least 2 days before you travel. Applying earlier is recommended to avoid last-minute issues.

If I already have a valid B1/B2 visa, do I need an ESTA?

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No. Travelers who already hold a valid U.S. visa do not need to apply for an ESTA to enter the United States.

What should I do if my ESTA application is denied?

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If your ESTA is denied, first check whether any incorrect passport, personal, or travel information may have affected the result. If you’re not eligible for ESTA, you may still apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Does an approved ESTA guarantee entry into the United States?

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No. ESTA only authorizes travel to the United States. The final decision on entry is made by a CBP officer at the port of entry.

Can I extend my stay if I entered with ESTA?

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No. Stays under the Visa Waiver Program cannot be extended beyond 90 days.

If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa before traveling.