esta visa uk to us

ESTA Visa UK to USA: Cost, Application, and Everything You Need to Know

If you're a UK citizen planning to visit the United States for business, tourism, or transit purposes, the ESTA visa (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to gain entry under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the ESTA visa UK to US, including the cost, how to apply, and some key tips for your trip to the U.S.

What is an ESTA Visa?

The ESTA visa is not a traditional visa but an online travel authorization for travelers from countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of the UK are eligible to apply for an ESTA when visiting the United States for up to 90 days for business, tourism, or transit. The ESTA provides a fast, efficient, and straightforward way for travelers to get approval to enter the U.S. without the need for a lengthy visa application process.

Once approved, the ESTA visa is valid for two years, allowing multiple trips to the U.S. within that time frame, as long as each visit is under 90 days. However, it’s important to note that your ESTA authorization is electronically linked to your passport, so if your passport expires, you’ll need to apply for a new ESTA.

ESTA Visa UK to US Cost

The cost of an ESTA visa UK to US is relatively affordable compared to other visa types. The official ESTA application fee consists of two components:

Application Fee: The base fee for processing your ESTA application is $14 USD.
Additional Service Fees: If you choose to use a third-party service provider, you may incur additional charges for processing and handling your application. These fees can vary, so it’s always best to use the official U.S. government website to avoid inflated costs.

In total, the ESTA visa for UK citizens will typically cost around $21 USD, which includes both the application fee and any additional processing fees, if applicable.

It’s important to remember that once granted, the ESTA allows you to travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without the need for a full visa. If you are planning to stay in the U.S. for longer than 90 days or for other purposes such as work or study, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.

How to Apply for an ESTA Visa from the UK to the USA

Applying for an ESTA visa UK to US is a simple and quick process that can be completed entirely online. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Visit the Official ESTA Website: Go to the official U.S. government website or an authorized service provider to begin your application process. Be sure to use the official website to avoid additional or hidden charges.
Fill in the Application Form: Provide the required personal details, including your name, date of birth, passport information, and travel details. You will also need to answer a series of security-related questions.
Pay the ESTA Fee: After completing the application form, you’ll need to pay the ESTA fee of $21 USD. Payment can be made using a credit card or other accepted payment methods.
Wait for the Approval: In most cases, you will receive a decision within minutes of submitting your application. However, it is recommended that you apply at least 72 hours before your flight to allow time for processing in case of any issues.
Receive Your ESTA Approval: If your application is approved, you will receive an email with your ESTA authorization. You are not required to print this document, as U.S. immigration officials can access your ESTA electronically.

Key Points to Know About ESTA

Before applying for the ESTA visa UK to US, there are a few important things to consider:

Eligibility: Not all travelers are eligible for an ESTA. You must be a citizen or eligible national of a Visa Waiver Program country (such as the UK) and meet other requirements, such as having a valid passport. If you have been previously denied entry to the U.S. or have a criminal record, you may need to apply for a different visa.
Travel Purpose: The ESTA visa is only for travel purposes such as tourism, business, or transit. If your purpose of visit is not included in these categories, you will need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa instead.
Travel Duration: The ESTA allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for another visa type, such as a tourist visa or student visa.
Multiple Entries: One of the key benefits of the ESTA is that it allows you to visit the U.S. multiple times within the two-year validity period, as long as each trip is less than 90 days.
Validity: An ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If your passport expires during the two-year period, you will need to apply for a new ESTA with your new passport.

What to Do If Your ESTA Application is Denied

If your ESTA application is denied, it does not mean you are permanently ineligible to travel to the U.S. In most cases, you may need to apply for a visitor visa (B-1/B-2 visa) through the U.S. embassy or consulate. Denials can happen for various reasons, such as security concerns or previous travel violations. If you are denied, it is best to consult the U.S. embassy for guidance on the next steps.