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How much is an ESTA visa for the USA? - Price and processing time
iVisa
5 min read
Updated on Jan 22, 2024

Please note that as of June 2022 the CDC no longer requires travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery from COVID pre arrival to the US

Traveling to the United States involves a visa program for the majority of the time. Only 5 countries and lands are visa-exempt, meaning that each of the other travelers must get some kind of document to cross the US borders. As some need to pay a visit to the nearest US diplomatic assignment, others need just a USA ESTA. Below, you will find info about this type of document.

USA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to apply for an ESTA to visit the United States?

It depends on your nationality. You can use iVisa's Visa Checker to see if you're eligible for an ESTA. Select your nationality and the United States as the destination and you will be able to check information. It is also possible to check the requirements below, specifically on the site.

What is an ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automatic system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or safety risk. Upon completion of an ESTA program, a traveler is notified of their eligibility to go to the United States.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is administered by the DHS (Dept. of Homeland Security) and empowers eligible citizens or nationals of designated countries to go to the United States for tourism or business (for stays up to 90 days) without obtaining a visa.

How long can people remain in the USA having an ESTA?

Visitors carrying out an ESTA can enter the United States for a max of 90 days Per Entry. All visits are strictly confined to business or tourism, so you cannot seek paid work nor employment.

Which are the documents required to apply?

Ahead applying online, you may need:

  • An electronic passport using a digital chip containing biometric info and with at least 6-month validity from the planned date of entry.
  • Your telephone number and Personal Identification Number (PIN).

How long is the ESTA valid?

The ESTA is valid for two years from the date of approval.

How much for a visa to the USA?

A nonimmigrant visa cost $160 USD which is applicable to the B1/B2 visa. Travelers that fall under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) must apply for an ESTA which has a different pricing structure.

How much is an ESTA visa?

The standard processing for an ESTA will cost USD $38.99. Keep in mind that the ESTA is Not a visa but rather an automated system that determines if a visitor is eligible under the Visa Waiver Program.

To acquire your ESTA, iVisa supplies you with three choices for the processing period and three costs based on whichever one you choose. The choices are:

  • Standard processing -- USD $38.99 and receive your ESTA within 24 hours.

  • Rush processing -- USD $55.99 and is processed in 12 hours

  • Super rush processing -- this is the fastest option (4 hours), but with a higher price of USD $74.99.

Click here to start your application.

How much time does it take to apply for an ESTA?

The application form you need to complete to obtain your ESTA will require you less than 10 minutes. Next, we will enable you to know the condition of the program.

How can I apply to an ESTA?

The application for an ESTA is really simple. It's just 3 steps:

  1. The first step will ask you to fill in your general information. You also ought to choose the processing period from the options mentioned above.
  2. The second step will ask you to revise step one and make the payment.
  3. The final step is made up of questionnaire along with a photograph upload. It's at this point when you need to upload your passport scan. Other documents may be required as well, but it depends on personal circumstances.

Click here to begin. If you happen to need help to fill your application, iVisa has a fantastic support service which you can call 24/7.

What happens once I have applied?

Once the application is completed, you simply need to wait for us to send you an email to notify you regarding your eligibility to go to the United States under the VWP.

How many times can I enter the United States with an ESTA?

You are able to have a Multiple Entry.

Can the ESTA guarantee admission into the United States?

No. If your ESTA is approved, it says that you're eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, but doesn't guarantee that you are admissible into the United States. Upon arrival in the USA, you will be scrutinized enforcement.

Should I get an ESTA for my children too?

Children listed on their parents' passports do not qualify for an ESTA. Children must have their own (non-expired) passport to be able to qualify for an ESTA.

How can I apply for my family or friends?

You can apply for others, just make sure you have all the required documents (you can see previously in this article), then click here to enter their information. In the case you need to apply for at least one individual, you can do this by clicking on "insert new candidate" from the application form and finishing the data required.

What can I do if I make a mistake in my application?

If you made an error when entering your information online, then please contact our customer service representatives ASAP through our online chat to assist you.

Remember that if we submitted your application, then you CANNOT make any changes and you will need to apply again but we will NOT charge you another service fee.

Is it safe to use iVisa to receive my ESTA?

IVisa offers maximum security for your own personal information, confidentiality, and we invest a lot in the safety of our database. Your information couldn't be safer.

I have more unresolved questions, where can I find more info?

For a quicker settlement click here and commence chatting with one of our client service representatives.

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.uscis.gov/

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