The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is a form needed for all the persons who want to visit the United States of America under the Visa Waiver Program. The VWP has 38 member countries, including most EU countries, as well as New Zealand and Australia.
This program makes it easier for the citizens of those countries to visit the US, and they no longer need a visa. Applying for an ESTA is very simple, and you can do it online. Here are some things that you must know first though.
Complete the application
When it comes to completing your ESTA for US, you should make sure that you do it early enough. It is recommended to fill in the form at least three days before you leave for the US. Usually, the answer comes back very quickly, but it is better to be safe.
Before you complete your ESTA, you should make sure that you have some information at hand. You will need to fill in details about your passport, as well as flight information and the address where you will stay in the United States. Make sure that you use the correct information because you can change it afterward, except for the email address and the address.
If there are any changes, you will need to reapply for the ESTA authorization. This could be the case if you change your passport for example.
The fee
It will cost you $14 to complete your ESTA form. However, you should know that there are plenty of services who can help you if you feel like you are overwhelmed with the application. You can also find a travel agent who can guide you through the entire process.
Nonetheless, we believe that you can do it by yourself. Not only that you will save some money, but you will also save time because it shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes to complete the entire application. It might be necessary to ask for the help of a lawyer if you have been arrested in the past or if you have some immigration issues.
What if you previously received ESTA authorization?
If you already received your ESTA authorization, you might be able to use it for future trips. You should know that the ESTA form remains valid for two years. Additionally, if your passport expires you will need to renew your ESTA authorization.
Do not hide information
It is essential that you offer the real answers when you complete your ESTA form. For example, if you have been previously arrested or if you had any immigration issues, you must disclose this information. If you do not this, it will be considered a fraud and you might become inadmissible to enter the United States.
In such a situation, it is recommended that you speak first with a lawyer about your legal problems. This way you will know exactly how to complete your Electronic System for Travel Authorization form.
