Our advice on How to Apply for an ESTA

For guests planning a holiday to the United States, including travel under the ESTA Visa Waiver Programme, you may have seen recent media coverage about updated application requirements. While some of these changes have attracted attention, for the vast majority of British holidaymakers the ESTA process remains straightforward and familiar.

An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is required for British passport holders travelling to the USA for tourism for stays of up to 90 days. This requirement applies to all travellers, including adults, children, and infants, and each person must have their own approved ESTA before travelling. Families and groups can apply together using a group application, with one person submitting and paying for all applications at the same time; however, each traveller still receives their own individual ESTA approval linked to their passport.

ESTA applications are completed online via the official US government website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, or through the official App which can be found in the App store on your mobile phone. Travellers are strongly advised to avoid third-party websites that charge additional fees without offering any added benefit. The application process usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes per person, and, in most cases, approval is granted within a few minutes, although the process could take up to 72 hours at certain times, so it is sensible to apply well in advance of travel. Once approved, an ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple visits to the USA during that period. The current application fee is $40 per person, payable online by debit or credit card.

When applying, travellers are asked to provide standard information including passport details, contact and employment information, accommodation address if known, and an emergency contact. As part of updated requirements, applicants are also asked to provide social media account names and any phone numbers previously used. Importantly, this does not involve providing passwords or login details, nor does it allow access to private messages or personal content. In most cases, the information requested is already publicly available or routinely shared when booking flights, accommodation, or other online services.

While some travellers may initially have concerns around privacy, these additional questions are unlikely to affect genuine British tourists in any meaningful way. For families, couples, and villa guests travelling to Florida or elsewhere in the USA for a holiday, the ESTA process remains uncomplicated. Many travellers also find reassurance in knowing that sensible screening measures are in place, helping to keep the USA a safe and secure destination.

These updates do not change entry requirements for legitimate tourists, nor do they affect your holiday experience once you arrive. Orlando, Florida, and the wider United States continue to welcome British visitors as warmly as ever, with millions travelling each year without issue. We simply recommend applying for your ESTA in good time and ensuring all information is accurate and up to date.

There are certain situations where an ESTA will not be granted. Travellers who have previously been refused a US visa or ESTA, overstayed a past visit, or been denied entry at the border are unlikely to be approved. Certain criminal convictions may also affect eligibility, including offences involving violence, drugs, fraud, or serious moral issues. It’s important to note that the UK Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply to US immigration law, and spent convictions can still be relevant. Minor traffic offences that did not result in arrest or conviction generally do not prevent travel under the Visa Waiver Programme.

ESTA eligibility is also affected by travel to certain countries. Anyone who has visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, or Yemen since 2011, or Cuba on or after 12 January 2021, is not eligible to travel under the ESTA scheme and must instead apply for a visa. In addition, travellers who are not citizens of a Visa Waiver Programme country, who hold dual nationality with certain restricted countries, or who have specific serious health conditions that pose a public health risk may also be refused an ESTA.

Providing incorrect, incomplete, or misleading information on an ESTA application can result in refusal, even if the mistake is unintentional. For this reason, it’s essential that all questions are answered honestly and carefully. If an ESTA is refused, this does not mean travel to the USA is impossible. In these cases, travellers must apply for a visitor visa, which involves a separate application, a fee, and an interview at a US Embassy. Appointment availability can take several months, so early planning is important. Overall, the ESTA remains a simple and efficient way for British visitors to gain travel authorisation to the United States. With a little preparation and accurate information, most travellers complete the process smoothly and go on to enjoy a stress-free holiday. If you have any questions about ESTA applications or planning your US trip, we are always happy to help.

For further information, or for clarification on anything, please refer to the official US Embassy website: uk.usembassy.gov/visas/visa-waiver-program