Quick answer
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an online authorization run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries need an approved ESTA to travel to the United States by air, sea or land for tourism, business or transit of up to 90 days without a visa. It costs $40.62 and is generally valid for two years.
- 42countries in the Visa Waiver Program
- 90 daysmaximum stay per visit
- 2 yearsvalidity, or until the passport expires
- $40.62total official fee when approved
On this page
What ESTA is and what it is not
ESTA is not a visa. It is a check, done before you travel, of whether you are eligible to come to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The State Department describes the VWP as allowing most citizens of participating countries to travel for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.
An approved ESTA lets you board. The decision to admit you is made by a CBP officer when you arrive. Read what happens at the US border.
Who can use ESTA
You must be a citizen or national of one of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries and hold an e-passport. Check your passport on the Do I need ESTA? page. Travellers from other countries normally need a visitor visa.
What you can do with ESTA
| Allowed | Not allowed |
|---|---|
| Holiday, tourism, visiting friends or relatives | Study for credit |
| Business meetings, conferences, contract negotiations | Employment |
| Medical treatment | Work as foreign press, radio, film or other media |
| Transit to another country | Living permanently in the United States |
| Short recreational course not for credit | Staying longer than 90 days |
How long ESTA lasts
Unless revoked, the authorization is valid for two years from the date it is approved, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. In that time you can make multiple trips. It only has to be valid on the day you arrive: you do not need a new one if it expires while you are in the United States.
More detail: ESTA cost and validity and how to apply.
Sources
Checked on 13 November 2026. Rules can change; the official pages below always take priority.