What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (esta)?

To enhance the security of travel to the United States under the VWP (visa waiver programme) requirements to travel visa free have been increased.

Passport holders of the visa waiver programme Countries are still eligible to travel without a visa but will now have to obtain an ESTA prior to travel to the United States.

Who is required to have an Electronic system for Travel Authorisation?

Effective from January 12th 2009 All travellers to The United States under the visa free Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) are required to obtain and ESTA travel approval authorization prior to travelling to the United States.
Accompanied and unaccompanied children, regardless of age will be required to obtain an esta approval before travelling to the United States.

Is an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (esta) a visa?

No, an approved ESTA is not a visa. 
It does not meet the legal or regulatory requirements to serve in lieu of a US visa, when a visa is required under US law. 

Which Countries are eligible for the visa waiver programme for the USA?

I am only transiting through the United States. Do I need an ESTA?

Yes. Nationals or Citizens of the VWP Countries who are only transiting through the United States en route to another Country with require an ESTA.
The United States no longer has a Transit without Visa programme.

How long is an ESTA valid for?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is valid on your passport for two years from the date of authorisation or until your passport expires, whichever is the sooner.

How long can I stay in the United States for?

Under the visa waiver programme The United States allows foreign nationals of the VWP Countries to stay for up to 90 days or less on business or for pleasure without obtaining a visa.

Travellers admitted under the visa waiver programme must agree to waive their rights to review or appeal.

Does an approved Electronic System for travel authorisation (esta) guarantee entry to The United States?

No not necessarily. An esta approval only authorises a traveller to board a carrier for travel to the United States under the visa waiver programme.
An approved ESTA is not a guaranteed admission to the United States at a port of entry.

What will happen if I do not apply for an Electronic System for travel authorisation after 12th January 2009?

After 12th January 2009, visa waiver programme nationals who do not apply for and receive an authorised ESTA prior to travel may be denied boarding or experience delays or be denied admission at a US port of entry. 

3 easy ways to apply for your American ESTA visa

For group and family USA ESTA applications and special rates
Call 01270 626 626

Visa for America Ltd are USA ESTA processing specialists.
Visa for America Ltd are an independant company registered in the UK.

Supplying Travellers to the USA with a Dependable American ESTA Service.