Guide
ESTA guide: answers to the most important questions
Factual explanations of validity, costs, passports, children, transit and refusal – with sources from CBP and DHS and a review date. Last updated: 4 October 2026.
Short summaries of each topic. The binding information is always on the official CBP website.
When to apply for ESTA
Possible at any time, but not at the last minute: timeline from booking to departure.
ReadESTA costs
Breakdown of the CBP fee, the change on 16 October 2026 and our total prices.
ReadESTA validity
Two years or until the passport expires – and why that is not the permitted length of stay.
ReadVisa Waiver countries
The 42 countries according to DHS – and why nationality counts, not place of residence.
ReadESTA and passport
E-passport with chip, validity requirements and what applies when you get a new passport.
ReadESTA for children
Every child needs its own authorisation and its own e-passport.
ReadESTA for transit
Even if you only change planes, you need an ESTA or a visa – and enter “In Transit” in the address field.
ReadCheck ESTA status
Application number, status check with CBP, meaning of the three results – and how it differs from our order status.
ReadChange ESTA details
New passport, new name, typo: when an update is enough and when you need a new application.
ReadRenew ESTA
There is no extension – only a new application. When it makes sense.
ReadESTA denied
Pending, Approved, Travel Not Authorized – and which options remain after a denial.
ReadESTA eligibility questions
What the ESTA eligibility questions cover – and why truthful answers are essential.
ReadESTA: planned changes
Social media details, selfie, mandatory app: what CBP has proposed and what has not been decided yet.
Read
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Apply for a US ESTA – prepare now.
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