Help Center

Before starting your application, gather your valid e-Passport, know your travel dates, and have accommodation details available if possible.

Step 1: Navigate to the Apply page and enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your passport. Even minor discrepancies between your application and passport can cause delays or denials.

Step 2: Provide your expected travel details including arrival date and the general purpose of your visit. If you have not yet booked accommodation, you may enter 'Unknown' in the optional fields.

Step 3: Answer each eligibility and security question truthfully and completely. These questions cover your health history, criminal record, and previous travel patterns. Inaccurate responses can result in permanent ineligibility.

Step 4: Carefully review every field in your application summary. You can edit any section before final submission. Double-check passport numbers, dates, and spelling of your full name.

Step 5: Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation with a unique reference number. Save this number — you will need it to check your application status.

Your passport must be an electronic passport (e-Passport) with an integrated chip that stores your biometric data. You can identify an e-Passport by the small camera icon on the cover.

The passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay. If your passport expires while you are in the United States, you may face legal complications and difficulty departing.

All machine-readable zones (the lines of text at the bottom of the identity page) must be undamaged and clearly legible. Scanners at airports use these zones to verify your identity.

If your passport has been reported lost or stolen and later recovered, it may no longer be valid for ESTA purposes. Contact your passport-issuing authority for clarification.

Travelers with diplomatic, service, or official passports may have different requirements. Check with your government before applying through the standard ESTA system.

Apply for your travel authorization at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure. While most applications are processed within minutes, some require additional review time.

Print a copy of your authorization confirmation or save it digitally on your phone. While carriers can verify your status electronically, having a copy provides peace of mind at check-in.

Familiarize yourself with US customs regulations before arrival. Certain food items, agricultural products, and amounts of currency must be declared upon entry.

Consider enrolling in your government's traveler registration program so your embassy can contact you in case of emergencies during your US visit.

Keep your return or onward travel ticket accessible. Border officers may ask to see proof of your departure plans as part of the entry process.

Application Denied: If your ESTA is denied, you may need to apply for a standard nonimmigrant visa through your nearest US embassy or consulate. A denial does not permanently prevent future travel to the United States, but you must pursue the visa route.

Status Shows 'Pending': Some applications require extended processing. If your status remains pending for more than 72 hours, ensure you entered the correct email address and check your spam folder for communications.

Incorrect Information Submitted: If you realize an error after submission, you will typically need to submit a new application with the correct information. Minor errors (such as accommodation address) may not require a new application.

Passport Renewed After Approval: Your ESTA is linked to your specific passport. If you receive a new passport, you must submit a new ESTA application with your new passport details before traveling.

Website Technical Issues: Clear your browser cache, try a different browser, or switch from mobile data to WiFi. If issues persist, contact our support team for assistance.

Entering your name in the wrong order. Always list your surname (family name) first, followed by your given names, matching your passport exactly.

Using an expired passport or a passport without an electronic chip. Only valid e-Passports from VWP countries are accepted.

Waiting until the last minute. While processing is typically fast, unforeseen delays can disrupt your travel plans if you apply too close to departure.

Providing inconsistent travel dates. Ensure the arrival date on your application aligns with your actual flight booking to avoid potential screening flags.

Forgetting to save your reference number. Without this number, checking your application status becomes significantly more difficult.