Exact time you should apply for ESTA to travel to the USA, according to experts
With the Foreign Office issuing new rules to UK tourists over obtaining an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for the USA, travel experts have confirmed the exact time you need to apply to ensure a smooth process.
Everyone travelling to the USA, for business or pleasure, under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has to apply for an ESTA to gain approval for admission to the country.
But knowing exactly when to apply for the mandatory paperwork is crucial if you want to avoid hold-ups. Experts at Journeyscape have advised when you should put in the application.
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Applying at the last gasp, hours before your flight, is risky. Although some approvals are instant, unforeseen technical issues or data entry mistakes can cause delays that may prevent you from boarding. Journeyscape said: "While many travellers report receiving approval within minutes, ESTA applications can sometimes take up to 72 hours for approval."
But applying too early can also cause issues. The travel experts added: "Don’t apply more than 90 days before your travel date, as the ESTA is only valid for two years, and applying too early could mean needing to renew sooner than necessary if you frequently visit the US."
Journeyscape's advice is to to get your application in "at least a week" before you head off. Striking the balance between too early and too late.
Common mistakes that delay ESTA approval have also been highlighted. The number one cause of rejection is providing incorrect passport information. Even a single-digit mistake in your passport number can result in a denied application.
It's good practice to always monitor the application of your status on the official website. If it shows as pending be sure to follow up and ensure all is in order before your travel date.
Journeyscape also advised against failing to disclose previous travel history. They said some travellers omit past visits to countries like Iran, Iraq, or Cuba, thinking it might complicate their application. However, failing to disclose this information can lead to denial. They added: "Always be honest."
You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: Iran , Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen.
And if you’ve travelled to Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, your ESTA application might be denied, and you may have to undergo the traditional visa process. Keep this in mind when planning your travels to avoid any surprises.
Only use the official ESTA website to avoid additional fees from third-party services. The application fee is $21 (£17), and some third-party sites charge significantly more without adding any real value.
While it’s not mandatory to have a confirmed flight and accommodation, it’s helpful to have some information about your travel itinerary ready. You will be asked where you will be staying in the US, even if just a city name.
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