United States/ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)

ESTA Requirements - US Visa Waiver Program

Complete guide to ESTA requirements for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries visiting the United States.

Processing: Usually approved within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel)

Fee: $21

Updated: Jan 2026

Overview

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.

Currently, 41 countries participate in the VWP, including most EU countries, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others. Even with ESTA, you must still prove you qualify for admission at the US port of entry.

ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple entries.

Eligibility Requirements

Citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country
Valid e-passport with electronic chip
Traveling for tourism, business, or transit
Stay of 90 days or less
No previous visa denials or immigration violations
Meet standard admission requirements

Required Documents

Valid e-Passport

Required

Machine-readable passport with electronic chip

ESTA Approval

Required

Approved ESTA application (apply online)

Proof of Onward Travel

Required

Return or onward ticket out of the US

Use our Proof of Onward Travel Generator

Accommodation Details

Required

Address where you will be staying

Financial Means

Optional

Proof of funds for your stay

May be requested at port of entry

Application Steps

Check Eligibility

Confirm your country is in the Visa Waiver Program

Apply Online

Complete ESTA application at esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Pay Fee

Pay $21 application fee

Wait for Approval

Usually approved within 72 hours

Travel

Present passport with approved ESTA at check-in and US entry

Visa Fees

Type	Amount	Note
ESTA Application Fee	$21	Valid for 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries are eligible for ESTA?

VWP countries include: UK, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and 32 other countries. Check the official CBP website for the complete list.

Do I need a return flight for ESTA?

Yes, you must have a return or onward ticket when entering the US with ESTA. Use our Proof of Onward Travel Generator if needed.

Can I extend my stay with ESTA?

No, ESTA entries cannot be extended. You must leave within 90 days. If you need to stay longer, you should apply for a B1/B2 visa instead.

Generate Your Documents

Create all required documents for your ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) application

Flight Itinerary Generator Hotel Booking Generator Proof of Onward Travel Generator

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Processing Time

Usually approved within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel)

Standard processing

Important

Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate website before applying.

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