How Much Is an ESTA Visa for USA from the UK? A Complete Guide
When planning a trip to the United States from the United Kingdom, one of the essential steps is securing the right visa or authorization for travel. For UK citizens traveling for tourism, business, or transit purposes, the most common and convenient visa option is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This travel authorization allows travelers from the UK to visit the USA for up to 90 days without needing a traditional visa. But the question remains: how much is an ESTA visa for the USA from the UK?
What Is an ESTA and Why Do You Need It?
An ESTA is not a visa, but rather a travel authorization granted under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). It allows citizens from VWP member countries, like the United Kingdom, to travel to the USA for tourism, business, or transit purposes without requiring a full visa. The ESTA application is completed online, and it’s a simple, straightforward process that takes only a few minutes.
Cost of an ESTA Visa for USA from the UK
As of now, the cost of an ESTA for UK citizens is $21. This fee covers the processing of your application. Of this amount, $4 is for the operational costs of processing the application, and the remaining $17 is charged for the travel authorization itself. The ESTA is valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, UK citizens can make multiple trips to the USA, provided each stay does not exceed 90 days.
How to Apply for an ESTA Visa from the UK
Applying for an ESTA visa for the USA from the UK is a simple online process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
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Visit the Official ESTA Website: Go to the official ESTA application page (the U.S. government’s website). Avoid third-party services that may charge additional fees for the same service.
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Fill Out the Application Form: The application form will ask for personal details, passport information, and travel plans. You will also need to answer a few security-related questions.
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Pay the ESTA Fee: Once the form is filled out, you will need to pay the ESTA fee of $21. The payment can be made via credit or debit card.
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Submit Your Application: After the payment is processed, submit your application. Most applicants will receive their ESTA approval within minutes, although it’s advisable to apply at least 72 hours before travel to account for any potential delays.
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Check Your ESTA Status: After submission, you can check your ESTA status on the official website. If approved, you will receive an authorization that you can print or save to your phone. While you do not need to carry a physical document, you must have your ESTA linked to your passport when boarding the plane.
How Long Does an ESTA Take to Process?
While an ESTA application is typically processed within minutes, it is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your planned departure. If there are issues with your application, such as discrepancies in your information or answers to security questions, processing may take longer. In some cases, travelers may be required to apply for a visa instead of an ESTA, especially if they have a criminal history or other disqualifying factors.
Related Information: What Happens if Your ESTA Is Denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you may not be able to board your flight to the United States. However, the good news is that you can still apply for a regular U.S. visa through the U.S. embassy or consulate in the UK. It’s important to note that a denied ESTA does not mean you are permanently banned from entering the U.S.; it simply means you need to apply through the traditional visa process.
Can You Extend Your ESTA for Longer Stays?
The ESTA is valid for two years or until the expiration of your passport. However, each stay in the USA is limited to 90 days, and extensions are not possible under the ESTA program. If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a B-1 Business Visa or a B-2 Tourist Visa.
Additional Considerations for UK Citizens Traveling to the USA
When applying for an ESTA visa from the UK, there are a few things to keep in mind:
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Ensure Your Passport Is Valid: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry into the U.S.
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Travel Insurance: While travel insurance is not a requirement for an ESTA, it is highly recommended to protect yourself during your travels.
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No Visa Needed for Short Stays: Remember, the ESTA is only for short stays (up to 90 days). If your trip will exceed this duration or involve activities such as studying or working in the U.S., you must apply for the appropriate visa.
Why You Should Apply for Your ESTA Visa Online
The ESTA application process is fast, simple, and affordable. Applying online eliminates the need to visit an embassy or consulate, saving both time and money. Once approved, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your travel authorization is in place, allowing you to focus on your trip without worrying about visa issues.
If you're planning a visit to the USA and need to apply for your ESTA visa from the UK, don't wait until the last minute. Apply online now to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey!
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Click here to start your application for a USA ESTA visa today! With just a few clicks, you can get approved and prepare for your trip to the USA.
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