ESTA visa cost USA: Complete guide to fees and processing (2024)

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a mandatory travel requirement for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries planning to visit the United States. Understanding the costs and processing times is crucial for planning your trip effectively.

Understanding ESTA fees and payment options

Standard processing: $120.99 (48 hours)
Rush processing: $135.99 (24 hours)
Super rush processing: $146.99 (12 hours)

Pro Tip: Based on customer feedback, applying for ESTA at least 72 hours before your planned travel date helps avoid rush processing fees and reduces stress.

ESTA application requirements and eligibility

Valid electronic passport with at least 6 months validity
Personal information and contact details
Travel itinerary details

ESTA Eligibility Requirements

Requirement	Details
Passport Type	Electronic passport with chip
Validity	Minimum 6 months beyond intended stay
Travel Purpose	Tourism or Business only
Maximum Stay	90 days per visit

Processing times and application status

Application completion time: Less than 10 minutes
Standard processing: 48 hours
Express options available for urgent travel

Pro Tip: Many travelers report successful applications by double-checking all entered information before submission. We at iVisa provide expert review of your application to ensure accuracy.

Common ESTA Application Challenges and Solutions

The ESTA application process, while straightforward, can present certain challenges. We at iVisa help travelers overcome these common obstacles:

Processing Time Concerns:

Standard processing: 48 hours
Rush processing: 24 hours
Super rush processing: 12 hours

Pro Tip: Based on customer feedback, applying at least 72 hours before travel helps avoid rush processing fees and reduces stress.

Payment Issues:

Government fee: $21
Processing fee variations based on service level
Multiple secure payment options available

Document Requirements:

Valid e-passport with chip
Recent digital photo
Travel itinerary details
Contact information

Frequently Asked Questions About ESTA Costs and Processing

Is the ESTA fee refundable? No, the $21 government fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. However, we at iVisa offer application review services to help minimize the risk of rejection.

Why are there different processing fees? Processing fees vary based on service level and support provided:

Standard processing: Basic application support
Rush processing: Priority handling
Super rush processing: Expedited review and processing

Can I update my ESTA without paying again? Minor updates to travel plans don't require a new application. However, significant changes like passport updates require a new ESTA and associated fees.

What happens if my ESTA is denied? If your ESTA is denied, you'll need to apply for a regular visitor visa. We can guide you through this alternative process and explain the requirements.

Understanding ESTA Validity and Multiple Entries

The ESTA authorization offers significant flexibility for regular travelers:

Feature	Details
Validity Period	2 years from approval
Maximum Stay	90 days per visit
Number of Entries	Multiple
Early Application	Up to 2 years before travel

Pro Tip: Many travelers successfully manage multiple short trips within the two-year validity period by carefully tracking their 90-day allowance.

Why Choose iVisa?

At iVisa, we've been simplifying visa processes for more than 10 years. Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about the United States or the ESTA application. Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.