How do I apply for an ESTA online?
Applying for ESTA authorization is relatively straightforward, as the application is made on the web. Simply fill in the ESTA form and follow the instructions. For the ESTA application, you will be asked to provide information relating to your identity and travel plans, such as your full name, date of birth, contact details, reason for travel to the USA and passport details. It is important that the information provided is identical to the passport data, otherwise authorization will be refused.
ESTA application requirements
You can apply online if you are a national of a country benefiting from the Visa Waiver Program. Your stay must not exceed 90 days, and must be for business, pleasure or transit. The passport used for the ESTA application must be an electronic or biometric passport, valid for the entire duration of your stay in the USA.
As the ESTA is a security measure guaranteeing the country’s internal security, it’s vital that the American authorities don’t see you as a potential risk to their national security. To do this, the American government needs to know about your physical and mental health, your criminal record, your travels to countries banned by the USA, etc.
How to apply for ESTA authorization
There are four steps to applying for ESTA authorization. The first is to complete the online form, and the second is to answer a questionnaire. Then comes the payment procedure to validate your authorization request. The final step is to reply to your request.
As mentioned above, the online form allows you to identify yourself and obtain your passport details. As for the questionnaire, it ensures that you do not represent a threat. Payment for the application is made by credit card and validates your application. You can no longer make any changes, except to update your e-mail address and your address in the USA.
You’ll usually get an instant response, but you may have to wait if your application is pending. However, the government is committed to providing you with a definitive answer within 72 hours.
ESTA application responses
If the response is instantaneous, it is either positive or negative. To obtain a pending reply, go to the official website and enter your name, passport number and ESTA number.
A positive response authorizes you to travel to the USA for transit, tourism or business for up to 90 days. The duration of your stay will be verified by the immigration officer when you clear customs. He will ask to see your return ticket.
ESTA authorization is valid for 2 years, unless your passport expires earlier. In this case, the ESTA is valid until your passport expires. For a new passport, you need to apply again. It is not possible to transfer your ESTA to a new passport.
A negative response is of course more problematic, as it suggests that you need to apply for a visa at the US embassy or consulate. Note, however, that a refusal can be explained by a typing error on your form. If this is the case, you can submit a new ESTA application, subject to a waiting period of around ten days.