ESTA Authorization Cost: What You Need to Know

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If you're planning to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), obtaining an ESTA authorization is a necessary step before boarding your flight. This online travel authorization allows you to enter the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without requiring a traditional visa. However, many travelers wonder, what is the ESTA authorization cost? In this article, we will break down the ESTA cost, how to pay it, and other important information related to ESTA fees.

What is the ESTA Authorization Cost?

The ESTA authorization cost is the fee you must pay when applying for your Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The cost is typically $21, which includes a processing fee for your application. This fee must be paid online at the time of application, and it is non-refundable, even if your ESTA application is denied.

It’s important to be cautious when choosing where to apply for your ESTA authorization. The official U.S. government website charges the standard $21 fee, while other third-party websites might offer to submit your application for a higher fee, sometimes significantly more than the official cost. Always ensure you are applying through a legitimate source to avoid unnecessary extra charges.

Breakdown of ESTA Authorization Fees

  1. Processing Fee: This fee, which is $14, is for the U.S. government to review and process your ESTA application. This is the most significant portion of the ESTA authorization cost.

  2. Authorization Fee: The remaining $7 is the fee charged for your official ESTA authorization. This is the cost for granting you permission to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

Together, these two fees make up the total $21 you need to pay when applying for your ESTA authorization.

How to Pay the ESTA Authorization Fee

When applying for ESTA authorization, you’ll be required to pay the $21 fee during the application process. The payment is made through a secure online payment system, and you can use various payment methods, including:

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  • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
  • Debit cards
  • PayPal (if available)

After you make your payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of your submission. While most applications are approved within minutes, it’s essential to allow up to 72 hours for processing in case of any issues or delays.

Is the ESTA Authorization Fee Refundable?

The ESTA authorization fee is non-refundable. Even if your ESTA application is denied, you will not receive a refund for the fee you paid. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that your application is completed accurately and that you meet all the eligibility requirements for the Visa Waiver Program to avoid unnecessary costs.

If your ESTA application is denied, you may need to apply for a U.S. visa, which can involve additional costs, depending on the type of visa you need. The visa application fee typically ranges from $160 to $265, depending on the visa category.

When Should You Pay for ESTA Authorization?

You should pay the ESTA authorization fee as soon as you begin your ESTA application. The application process is completed online, and you’ll be asked to enter your payment details before submitting your form for review. It’s advisable to apply for your ESTA authorization well in advance of your trip to ensure you have enough time for any processing delays.

Since ESTA authorization is valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first), the $21 fee covers multiple entries to the U.S. within that period. If you’re planning to visit the U.S. multiple times during the validity of your ESTA, the cost of ESTA remains the same, regardless of how many times you travel.

Additional Costs Associated with ESTA Authorization

While the ESTA authorization cost is a one-time payment during the application process, there are some additional costs you might encounter related to traveling to the U.S.:

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  • Flight Tickets: You will need to purchase airline tickets to the U.S. Travel costs, such as airfare, may vary depending on your destination and the time of booking.

  • Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events during your trip to the U.S. This is optional but highly recommended for international travelers.

  • U.S. Visa (if necessary): If your ESTA application is denied, or if you don’t meet the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program, you’ll need to apply for a U.S. visa. This visa application process has its own associated costs, which can be significantly higher than the ESTA fee.

Common Misconceptions About the ESTA Authorization Cost

  1. Third-Party Websites Charging Extra: Some third-party services offer to submit your ESTA application for a higher fee. These services may charge extra processing fees, which can be misleading. It’s essential to use the official U.S. government website to avoid paying unnecessary extra costs.

  2. Fee for Each Traveler: If you’re traveling as a family or group, each individual traveler must apply for their own ESTA authorization and pay the $21 fee. The fee is not per family or group, but per person.

  3. Validity Period and Cost: The $21 fee covers your ESTA authorization for up to two years (or until your passport expires). Some travelers mistakenly believe they must pay the fee again if they visit the U.S. multiple times during this period, but the fee covers all trips made within the validity period.

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Related Topics: U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

The U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is an essential part of the ESTA authorization process. The program allows travelers from designated countries to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without needing a traditional visa. The VWP is designed to streamline travel for short-term visitors while maintaining U.S. security standards.

Understanding the Visa Waiver Program and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria can make applying for ESTA easier and more efficient. Be sure to check if your country is part of the VWP before applying for ESTA authorization.

Apply for ESTA Authorization Today!

Now that you know all about the ESTA authorization cost, why wait? The process is simple, and with just a few steps, you can secure your ESTA authorization for your trip to the U.S. Don't forget that ESTA is valid for two years, and once approved, you can use it for multiple visits.

CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA authorization online and get your travel plans to the U.S. underway!

Easily apply for your eVisa online by visiting Tourist Requirements.

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