Are you planning a trip to the United States and wondering how much an ESTA visa waiver costs? In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the cost of an ESTA visa waiver.
What is an ESTA Visa Waiver?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). An ESTA visa waiver is a travel authorization that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a traditional visa.
How Much Does an ESTA Visa Waiver Cost?
The cost of an ESTA visa waiver is $14. This fee is payable online by credit card or debit card. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. It’s essential to ensure that all information provided in your application is correct as inaccuracies can lead to your application being rejected.
When is an ESTA Visa Waiver Required?
An ESTA visa waiver is required if you are a citizen of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and plan to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days. The following are countries that participate in the Visa Waiver Program:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brunei
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- South Korea
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
How Long Does It Take to Get an ESTA Visa Waiver?
The ESTA visa waiver application process is entirely online, and the application can be completed in as little as 10 minutes. However, it’s essential to apply for an ESTA visa waiver at least 72 hours before your travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. In most cases, the approval process is almost immediate, and you will receive an email that confirms your application status.
How Long is an ESTA Visa Waiver Valid For?
An ESTA visa waiver is valid for two years from the date of approval or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can use your ESTA visa waiver for multiple visits to the United States during this two-year period, as long as each visit does not exceed 90 days.
What Happens if My ESTA Visa Waiver is Denied?
If your ESTA visa waiver application is denied, you will not be able to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. You will need to apply for a traditional visa instead. It’s essential to ensure that all information provided in your application is correct as inaccuracies can lead to your application being rejected.
Conclusion
Knowing how much is an ESTA visa waiver is essential if you are planning a trip to the United States. The cost of an ESTA visa waiver is $14, and the application process is entirely online. Remember to apply for an ESTA visa waiver at least 72 hours before your travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. We hope this article has been helpful in answering your questions about the cost of an ESTA visa waiver.
