What is ESTA?
Definition
ESTA
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is the US online pre-screening required for travellers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries before flying to the United States. It is not a visa — it is a security check that approves or denies boarding. Valid for two years or until passport expiry.
Key facts
| Operator | US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Department of Homeland Security. |
|---|---|
| Fee | $21 (effective May 2025) per application. |
| Validity | 2 years or until passport expiry, multiple entries within that window. |
| Processing time | Usually under 1 hour; can take 72 hours for additional review. |
| VWP countries | 41 countries including the UK, all 27 Schengen states, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand. |
Who needs ESTA
Citizens of the 41 Visa Waiver Program countries. UK, Schengen states, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and others. Citizens of any country not in the VWP need a US visa (B1/B2 or other category) instead.
Is a photo needed for ESTA?
No physical photo is required for the ESTA application form. ESTA is purely an online pre-screening based on passport details and security questions. The biometric photo comparison happens at the US border on arrival, using the photo stored in your passport chip.
ESTA vs B1/B2 visa
ESTA is for short tourist or business trips (up to 90 days) from VWP countries — fast, cheap, no interview. A B1/B2 visa is for longer trips, frequent visits, study under 18 hours/week, or applicants from non-VWP countries. The B1/B2 requires a 2 × 2 inch DS-160 photo and an in-person interview.
Frequently asked questions
Is ESTA the same as a US visa?
No. ESTA is a visa-waiver authorisation for short trips from 41 specific countries. A US visa is a separate document for applicants who are not from a Visa Waiver Program country or who need to stay longer than 90 days.
Can ESTA be denied?
Yes. ESTA can be denied for criminal record, previous immigration violations, or certain national-security indicators. A denied ESTA requires applying for a B1/B2 visa instead — the US consulate handles the case in person.
Does ESTA require fingerprints?
No. ESTA is a passport-data-only check. Fingerprints are collected at US border control on arrival, not at the ESTA application stage.