How Much Is an ESTA Visa? A Complete Guide to ESTA Costs and Application
If you're planning a trip to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much is an ESTA visa? While many travelers refer to it as a visa, the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is technically not a visa. But it serves a similar purpose for short-term visits. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the cost of an ESTA, what you're paying for, and how to apply smoothly online.
Before diving into the cost, let’s clarify: ESTA is not a visa. It is an electronic travel authorization required for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries who plan to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days. Travelers must obtain this approval before boarding a plane or ship bound for the United States.
Even though it’s not a traditional visa, many ask, “How much is an ESTA visa?” because it’s treated as a mandatory pre-travel requirement.
As of now, the total cost of an ESTA application is $21 USD. This fee is made up of:
$4 processing fee – This is charged whether your application is approved or not.
$17 authorization fee – This is only charged if your ESTA is approved.
So, if you are approved (which most applicants are), the total ESTA visa cost is $21. If your application is denied, you will only be charged $4.
💡 Please note: If you apply through a third-party service, additional service fees may apply. These fees vary by provider and often include form-checking, customer support, and status tracking.
While it might seem like just a formality, the ESTA system involves security vetting, administrative handling, and electronic processing. The fees help fund the Department of Homeland Security's travel security programs and the promotion of U.S. tourism.
So when you ask, how much is an ESTA visa, remember you're also contributing to the broader U.S. entry infrastructure.
Once approved, an ESTA is valid for two years, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). During this time, you can enter the U.S. multiple times, with each stay lasting up to 90 days. There is no extra fee for re-entry within the two-year validity.
That means your $21 ESTA fee can cover multiple trips, offering excellent value for frequent travelers.
You must pay the ESTA application fee if you are:
A citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country (e.g., UK, France, Germany, Japan, Australia)
Visiting the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit
Entering by air or sea
Staying for 90 days or less
Even infants and children need their own ESTA (with the fee), although applications can be submitted by a parent or guardian.
When applying online, you’ll be prompted to pay during the application process. Accepted payment methods include:
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
Debit cards
PayPal
Payments are secure and processed electronically, ensuring your application proceeds without delay.
You pay at the time of application submission. If your payment isn’t completed, your ESTA won’t be processed. Once you’ve paid, the system will begin reviewing your application, with most approvals coming within minutes, although it can take up to 72 hours.
Can You Get a Refund?
If your ESTA is denied, you’ll not get a refund of the $4 processing fee. The $17 authorization fee, however, won’t be charged. If your ESTA is approved, the total $21 is non-refundable, even if your travel plans change.
Do You Have to Pay Again to Reapply?
Yes, if your ESTA expires or your details change (like your name or passport), you must submit a new application and pay the full fee again.
Understanding the cost of an ESTA helps you:
Budget for your trip properly
Avoid scams from unofficial websites that overcharge
Apply confidently and correctly online
The process is straightforward, but using a trusted online platform can give you peace of mind, especially if it's your first time applying.
Now that you know how much an ESTA visa costs, the next step is getting yours. The online process is fast, efficient, and essential for entering the United States if you're from a Visa Waiver Program country.
✅ Ready to apply?
👉 CLICK HERE to submit your ESTA application online now!
Make sure your travel plans to the U.S. are hassle-free — apply in minutes and get approved quickly!