Electronic System for Travel Authority (ESTA)

What is the Electronic System for Travel Authority (ESTA)?

If you are travelling to the USA, the US authorities have introduced a requirement for passengers travelling under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), to register for Electronic Travel Authority. Passengers who have not applied for and received travel authorisation via ESTA prior to travel may be denied boarding, experience delayed processing, or be denied admission at the US port of entry. However, neither possession of a visa, nor meeting the basic requirements for travelling visa-free on the VWP, guarantees admission to the United States. As with most countries, the final determination of admissibility is made by immigration officials at the port of entry. Please remember that issue of ESTA does not guarantee admissibility to the United States - it is only part of the travel approval process.

All queries in relation to this requirement should be addressed via the US Embassy Consular department. Please remember that if you are refused boarding or denied admission at the US port of entry, you will still be subject to our cancellation charges in accordance with the terms of our contract with you.

How do I apply for ESTA?

There is an online application form which is available now at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Prior to travel, you will need to visit this website and fill in the on-line application (currently in English only).

When should I apply for my travel authorisation?

If you intend to travel to the United States of America, you must apply for entry via ESTA a minimum of 72 hours prior to travel.

How long is the travel authorisation valid for?

Your ESTA will be valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires - whichever comes first. It is also valid for multiple entries to the US. However you must amend any necessary data, such as date of travel and your address whilst in the US.

Do I still need to provide information for Advanced Passenger Information (API)?

Yes. The requirement for you to apply for ESTA does not remove the need for you to provide the same or similar information for API (including first night address). ESTA is an additional requirement - it does not replace any existing documentation.

What is the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP)?

Citizens of Northern Ireland should consult the VWP information on the US Embassy London website: http://www.usembassy.org.uk, whilst Republic of Ireland nationals should visit http://dublin.usembassy.gov