ESTA is one of the United States’ new homeland security measures. In order to combat potential dangers, the American government has decided to introduce an authorization that allows travelers’ data to be analyzed even before they arrive on American soil. Travelling to the USA on a US visa is still possible, but applying for ESTA is much easier thanks to a rapid online application. Eligibility for the ESTA document depends on travelers meeting certain requirements. Not all travel is permitted under ESTA authorization, so it’s important to know more about this exit authorization.
What types of travel are authorized by ESTA?
To be eligible for the ESTA document, applicants must be on a tourist or business trip, or in transit before departing for another destination, such as the Bahamas or Cuba. What’s more, these stays must not exceed 90 days. Not only must travelers meet these requirements, they must also have a valid electronic or biometric passport, and travel by air or sea.
For longer stays, or for other reasons such as studying at an American university or working on American soil, the traveler is required to apply for a USA visa from the U.S. embassy.
How long before I travel do I need to obtain an ESTA?
Although the technology adopted allows the ESTA application form to be submitted at any time prior to departure, the American authorities recommend that applications be made no later than 72 hours before departure. This measure has been taken to avoid the risk of complications that could lead to delays in processing. Be aware, however, that if you make a mistake when filling in the ESTA form, it will be too late to reapply for authorization to travel to the USA. So make sure you think ahead and start the procedure as soon as possible.
ESTA is usually issued within a few minutes, but it can take longer, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait 72 hours.
ESTA USA prices
You won’t find the same prices on the Internet, for the simple reason that many sites offer to make the request for you.
On the one hand, you can order your ESTA for your stay in the USA by visiting the official U.S. government website. You need to reread the information provided, as there will be no verification phase on this site. The American authorities may refuse your ESTA if you have made a mistake on the online form. The cost of an application on the U.S. government website is $14.
You can order your ESTA via a private website. This system enables travelers to complete a simplified form. The private company verifies each item of information before sending the form to the appropriate authorities. This process requires an additional fee, but the price is still much lower than that of a USA visa from the American embassy.
What about the validity of the ESTA?
The ESTA is valid for two years from the date of issue, except of course in the event of cancellation (loss of passport, passport expiry, major change such as name or gender). During this two-year period, the holder of the authorization can enter the USA several times without having to re-apply.
It is also possible to update the authorization in the event of a change of e-mail address or local accommodation. All other changes require a new application.
