How to Fill Out an ESTA Application: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're planning a trip to the United States and you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), the ESTA application is the quickest and most convenient way to gain travel authorization. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows citizens of participating countries to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without needing to apply for a traditional visa. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of filling out the ESTA application to ensure you get approved smoothly.

What is ESTA?

The ESTA is an online application system created by the U.S. government. It grants travelers permission to board a flight to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Approved ESTA applications allow visitors from eligible countries to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days without needing a visa. This is ideal for travelers coming to the U.S. for business, tourism, or transit purposes.

While the ESTA application process is simple, it’s essential to follow the steps carefully and provide accurate information to avoid delays or rejections. Let’s walk through the entire process of how to fill out an ESTA application.

Step 1: Access the Official ESTA Website

The first step in the ESTA application process is visiting the official U.S. government website. Be cautious when using third-party websites that offer to process your ESTA for a fee, as they may charge more than the standard processing fee. The only official site for ESTA is:

  • https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Make sure you're on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) site to avoid any fraudulent applications.

Step 2: Begin the Application

Once you're on the official ESTA website, look for the "Apply for ESTA" button and click it to begin the application process. You’ll need to fill out various personal and travel details.

Basic Information

  • Full Name: Provide your first name, middle name (if applicable), and last name exactly as they appear on your passport.

  • Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the format (MM/DD/YYYY).

  • Country of Citizenship: Select your country of citizenship from the dropdown list.

  • Gender: Choose your gender from the options available.

Passport Details

  • Passport Number: Input the passport number from your valid biometric passport.

  • Country of Passport: Select the country that issued your passport.

  • Passport Expiry Date: Enter the expiration date of your passport. Ensure that your passport will remain valid for at least six months after your expected date of departure from the U.S.

  • Passport Issuance Date: Provide the date your passport was issued (if required).

Step 3: Provide Your Travel Information

Next, you’ll be asked to provide details about your trip:

  • Flight Information: While not always required, it’s recommended to provide the details of your flight to the U.S., including your flight number, departure airport, and arrival airport.

  • U.S. Address: Enter the address where you will be staying in the U.S. This can be a hotel, a friend's home, or a rental property. If you don’t have a specific address, you can provide the address of your first point of entry (such as the airport).

  • Emergency Contact Information: You’ll need to enter an emergency contact's name, phone number, and relationship to you. This person should be someone who can be reached during your stay in the U.S.

Step 4: Answer the Security Questions

The ESTA application will ask a series of security questions related to your health, criminal history, and travel background. Be truthful when answering these questions, as providing false information could result in your ESTA being denied.

Common Security Questions

  • Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?

  • Have you ever been involved in espionage or terrorism activities?

  • Do you have a contagious disease, or have you been ordered to quarantine?

  • Are you a member of a government or military organization that could pose a threat?

These questions are designed to ensure that travelers do not pose a security threat to the U.S. The answers you provide will help U.S. authorities determine if you are eligible for ESTA.

Step 5: Review and Confirm Your Information

Before submitting the application, double-check all the details you’ve entered. Make sure your personal and passport information is accurate, as even small errors can cause delays or denials. Pay particular attention to the following:

  • Passport number and expiration date

  • Flight details

  • Address of stay in the U.S.

  • Emergency contact information

Once you’ve confirmed that all details are correct, you’ll be asked to agree to the terms and conditions. This includes confirming that the information provided is accurate and that you understand the terms of the ESTA authorization.

Step 6: Pay the ESTA Application Fee

The final step in the ESTA application process is paying the application fee. As of now, the fee is $21 per application, payable by credit card. The payment is processed securely, and you will receive a confirmation of your payment.

After your payment is processed, you can submit your application.

Step 7: Receive Your ESTA Approval

Once you’ve submitted your application, it will be processed by the U.S. authorities. In most cases, you’ll receive an approval response within a few minutes. However, in some instances, it might take up to 72 hours to receive your authorization.

There are three possible outcomes:

  1. ESTA Approved: You’re authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program.

  2. ESTA Denied: You’ll need to apply for a U.S. visa.

  3. ESTA Pending: If your application status is pending, you’ll need to check back within 72 hours for an update.

It’s important to note that an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the U.S. The final decision is made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry.

Step 8: Check Your ESTA Status

If you need to check the status of your ESTA application, visit the official ESTA website and click on the "Check ESTA Status" link. You’ll need to enter your application number, passport details, and date of birth to access your status.

Tips for a Successful ESTA Application

  • Apply Early: While most applications are processed quickly, it’s always a good idea to apply at least 72 hours before your flight to ensure you have enough time to resolve any issues.

  • Double-Check Your Information: Ensure that all information, especially passport details and travel dates, are correct to avoid delays or denials.

  • Keep Your ESTA Information Safe: Once approved, keep a copy of your ESTA authorization with you when you travel. Although it’s not always required for boarding, it’s a good idea to have it accessible just in case.

In Conclusion

Filling out the ESTA application is a straightforward process that can help simplify your travel to the U.S. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to complete your application quickly and easily. Once approved, your ESTA will allow you to travel to the U.S. for short stays without the hassle of applying for a visa.

Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your ESTA. Apply today to ensure you’re ready for your U.S. trip!

CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA online.

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