Documents Required for All Applicants

The same 2 documents apply to every US ESTA type.

Tourism, Business, Medical, and Transit ESTA applications all follow identical document requirements.

1. A Valid e-Passport

Sample Of Passport Biopage
  • A scan of your passport's bio page is required. 
  • The machine-readable zone (MRZ) must be fully visible and readable. 
  • Your passport must be an electronic passport (ePassport) with a biometric chip. 
  • The passport must remain valid for the full duration of your intended stay in the United States.

2. Digital Applicant Photo

Sample Of Applicant Photo
  • A recent digital photograph is required. 
  • The image must show your full face clearly, with a neutral expression. No shadows, glare, or filters. 
  • Head coverings are permitted for religious purposes only. 
  • Your full face - forehead to chin - must remain unobstructed.

Basic Conditions for All Applicants

Before applying, confirm the following conditions apply to you:

  • You must be a citizen of a US ESTA-eligible country.
  • Your intended stay must not exceed 90 days.
  • You must not hold current authorisation to live, work, or study in the United States.
  • Each traveller, including children, requires their own individual ESTA approval.

What to Expect on Arrival in the United States

On arrival with an approved ESTA, you will go through standard entry checks conducted by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

  • A CBP officer may ask to see your return or onward ticket.
  • Your details and the stated purpose of your visit will be verified.
  • You may be asked questions about your stay.
  • The CBP officer at the port of entry makes the final admission decision.

An approved US ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States.

Document Submission Guidelines

  • Submit all information and documents in English.
  • Upload clear, legible scans. Blurred or cropped files may delay your application.
  • All fields marked with (*) are mandatory.
  • Review every detail carefully before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. A valid US visa exempts you from the ESTA requirement.

An approved ESTA is valid for two years, or until your linked passport expires, whichever comes first. It covers multiple trips within that period.

You need a visa if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, or if you intend to work or study in the United States.

No. Your ESTA is linked to the specific passport used at the time of application. A new passport requires a new ESTA application.

Content Disclaimer: This page reflects the current US ESTA document requirements. Confirm all details with the relevant US authorities before you travel.