USA ESTA Frequently Asked Questions
Clear and reliable answers to the most common questions about the US ESTA.
Apply For USA ESTA
Clear and reliable answers to the most common questions about the US ESTA.
Apply For USA ESTA
ESTA stands for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. It is an automated system which is used to assess whether visitors are eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). ESTA is a travel authorisation, not an eVisa.
USA ESTA application requirements include submitting a clear scan of the e-passport biodata page and a photo.
For travellers, there are 4 types of USA ESTA available: tourism, business, medical, and transit.
USA ESTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Yes, travellers can use an approved ESTA for multiple trips to the United States.
With an approved USA ESTA, an applicant can stay up to 90 days per visit.
No, the USA ESTA can not be extended. The applicant must leave before their ESTA expires.
Yes. Every child or minor needs a separate ESTA. The application can be filled out by a parent or by a guardian
Applicants need to fill in their email ID, name, travel details, passport number, contact number, birth details, nationality details, parents' names, employer details, etc.
You should apply at least 1 week before your planned travel date.
You may request changes by contacting support as soon as possible. Once processing begin, changes cannot be made, and you may need to submit a new ESTA application.
Incorrect or mismatched information may delay processing. Check that every detail matches your passport exactly and that all documents are valid before submitting your USA ESTA application.
The cost of a USA ESTA depends on the applicant’s nationality and the processing time selected during the application. Applicants can calculate the applicable amount using the USA ESTA fee calculator.
Accepted fee payment methods include:
All the status updates are sent to the applicant's registered email ID.
Yes. An ESTA is electronically linked to the passport used for the application. If your passport details change or you receive a new passport, you must apply for a new ESTA.
Contact USA ESTA support if you need guidance with your application.
Yes. Applicants’ information is protected using data encryption and SSL security measures.
Yes. Select the Add Applicant option to include multiple applicants in a single application. All applications are processed together, and updates are sent to the primary applicant, but each traveller receives a separate ESTA.
There are 3 options for processing applicants can choose any of these options.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries are eligible for a USA ESTA to travel to the United States.
No. You must renew your passport before applying for a USA ESTA.
Yes. A previous overstay may make you ineligible for a USA ESTA.
Yes. Repeated or back-to-back visits may lead to additional checks or refusal of entry.
Yes. They can apply for a USA ESTA if they have a passport from a visa waiver program country.
No. The final decision is made by a CBP officer upon arrival.
A CBP officer will check your passport and may ask about your visit, accommodation and length of stay.
Yes. You may be asked to provide fingerprints and have your photograph taken during the entry check.
You may be required to show proof that you intend to leave the United States within your authorised stay.
Content Disclaimer: This information was last updated in August 2026. Travellers should confirm current requirements with the relevant authorities, embassy and airline before departure.