ESTA Application for the USA: Travel to America Without a Visa, Tips & Tricks
Want to travel to the United States without a visa? Here is everything you need to know about the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), plus tips and tricks to keep your trip stress-free.
The USA is a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world. But as a European, there are a few things to keep in mind before you enter the country, and one of the most important is the ESTA application. In this article you will learn what ESTA is, how to apply and which tips and tricks make your trip to the USA smooth sailing.
What is the ESTA application?
The ESTA application is an electronic travel authorization system and a key part of the Visa Waiver Program for anyone who wants to travel to the USA without a visa. ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. You can fill in the application online, either on the website of ESTA specialists or on the official application site of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Good to know: ESTA applications can be filed not only for individuals but also for travel groups and families. If you are planning a trip to the USA, make sure you read up on ESTA well in advance.
Who needs to apply for ESTA?
Anyone who wants to travel to the USA visa-free must apply for ESTA. This applies to citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries. There are 40 VWP countries in total, including most European countries, and travelers may stay in the USA without a visa for up to 90 days.
When should I apply?
If you are traveling to the USA without needing a visa, ESTA matters. So when is the best time to apply? In principle, you can submit the application even without fixed travel dates. But to play it safe and avoid needless stress right before your flight, take care of it early. Applying at least 72 hours before departure is always a good idea, because approval can take up to 72 hours.
How do I apply for ESTA?
The ESTA application must be filed online through the US government's Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The form is available in several languages, and there is no way to submit it on paper or in person. You will need to provide personal information and answer questions about your health, any criminal history and the purpose of your trip. You will also need to give details of your flight and your accommodation in the USA. To apply, you need a valid passport and a credit or debit card to pay the application fee.
How much does the travel authorization cost?
The ESTA fee is made up of a processing fee and an authorization fee, which together make the total. You can pay by credit card, debit card or online payment systems. If your application is denied, however, only $17 is refunded, because $4 is kept for the processing already done. (At the time of writing: total fee $21. Since October 16, 2026, the ESTA authorization costs $40.62; read more in our article ESTA now costs $40.)
How can I check the status of my application?
Once you have submitted your ESTA application, you will probably want to know when it gets approved. You can check the status on the official ESTA website. Processing usually takes about 72 hours, after which the authorization is either granted or denied. Once your application is approved, you can review and update your email address and your address in the USA.
What happens if my ESTA application is denied?
An ESTA application can be denied for two different reasons. Either the form contained incorrect information that can no longer be corrected once the fee has been paid, or there is another reason, for example sharing a name with someone who has come to the authorities' attention, dual citizenship or travel to certain countries. Your answers to the security questions can also lead to a denial. So fill in the form carefully and truthfully to avoid an unnecessary denial.
What can I do after my application is denied?
If your ESTA application has been denied and it cannot be reset, you will need to apply for a suitable visa at the relevant US consulate. Keep in mind that after an ESTA denial you cannot simply apply again. You should also know that applying for a visa usually takes longer than ESTA. So apply early and have the required documents and information ready.
A different kind of walking
For many travelers, ESTA is an essential part of visa-free travel to the USA. The online system lets you apply quickly and easily and get an answer within a short time. Follow our tips and tricks to make sure your ESTA application succeeds and you can enjoy your dream vacation in America without a visa. Whether ESTA is enough for you or you need a visa after all is covered in our article ESTA or work visa.
Still have questions about ESTA or a US visa? Have a look at the Mount Bonnell Advisors website and our US visas section, or book a consultation directly with our expert on entering the USA.
Consultation & implementation
If you'd like to find out what this means for your own situation, the best step is to book a consultation.
