Traveling to the United States requires specific documentation for citizens of most countries, including the UK. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is one of the key requirements for travelers from the UK planning to visit the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This article will detail how much an ESTA costs, why UK citizens need it, and how to apply for it.
What Is An ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of travelers to visit the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. This program allows citizens from participating countries, including the UK, to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes without needing a visa.
Once granted, an ESTA allows the traveler to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days. The authorization is typically valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Why Do UK Citizens Need an ESTA?
UK citizens who are planning to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or while in transit are required to obtain an ESTA before they board their flight. This system helps the U.S. government track travelers and assess security risks before their arrival.
An ESTA is a mandatory requirement for travelers from the UK if:
You are visiting for up to 90 days.
Your visit is for tourism, business, or while in transit.
You have a valid passport from the UK.
You are not traveling to the U.S. on a diplomatic or official visit.
If a UK citizen plans to stay longer than 90 days or intends to work, study, or immigrate, they will need to apply for a visa instead of using the ESTA.
How Much Does an ESTA Cost for UK Citizens?
The total cost of an ESTA for UK citizens is $21 USD as of 2025. This fee is paid directly to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) via their official ESTA website.
Here’s the breakdown:
Application Fee: $14 USD.
Authorization Fee (if approved): $7 USD.
It’s important to note that the ESTA application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
Additionally, if your ESTA is approved, you will be able to use it for multiple trips to the U.S. within the two-year period or until your passport expires, without paying the fee again.
How to Pay for an ESTA
To apply for an ESTA, you need to visit the official U.S. government website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. During the application process, you’ll be prompted to enter your payment details. Accepted forms of payment include:
- Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover).
- Debit cards (with Visa or MasterCard logo).
- PayPal.
You will be required to make the payment after filling out the necessary personal and travel details.
Avoiding Scams: Only Use the Official ESTA Website
It is essential to apply for your ESTA through the official U.S. government website, as many third-party websites may try to charge you extra fees. Some unauthorized sites may appear official, but they are merely intermediaries charging for a service that you can obtain directly from the U.S. government without additional costs.
How to Apply for an ESTA
Applying for an ESTA is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure your application is approved without delays.
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before starting the ESTA application, make sure you have the following documents and information on hand:
Your valid UK passport (it must be an e-passport with a microchip).
Your travel details, including the address where you will be staying in the U.S. (if applicable).
Your employment details (optional but helpful).
Your contact information (email and phone number).
A credit or debit card for payment.
Step 2: Complete the ESTA Application
Go to the official ESTA website and fill in the application form with the required information. The questions will be related to your personal details, travel plans, and security screening. Be honest and accurate when answering.
Step 3: Pay the ESTA Fee
Once the application is complete, you will be prompted to pay the ESTA fee. The cost is $21, and the payment can be made using a credit card or PayPal. After payment, you will receive an email confirmation of your application.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
In most cases, ESTA approval is granted within minutes. However, it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your flight to allow for any unforeseen delays or issues. You can check the status of your ESTA application on the official website by entering your passport number and application details.
Step 5: Receive ESTA Approval
Once your ESTA is approved, you can print the confirmation or save it to your device, though you typically do not need to present it at the airport. Airlines will check the ESTA status before allowing you to board your flight. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a copy of your ESTA for your records.
How Long Is an ESTA Valid?
An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). During this period, you can use your ESTA to visit the U.S. multiple times, as long as each visit is for 90 days or less.
However, keep in mind that if there are any changes to your travel plans (such as a change in your passport or personal details), you must update your ESTA before traveling.
What Happens If Your ESTA Is Denied?
In some cases, your ESTA application may be denied. This could happen for a variety of reasons, such as:
Missing or incorrect information on the application form.
A history of immigration violations or criminal activity.
Issues related to security screenings.
If your ESTA is denied, you will need to apply for a visa to travel to the U.S. You may also contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for further clarification on the denial.
Conclusion
For UK citizens planning to travel to the U.S., the ESTA application is an essential part of the process. The cost of an ESTA for UK citizens is $21, which includes both the application and authorization fees. The application is quick and straightforward, and approval is typically granted within minutes.
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