Disclaimer
U.S. Immigration Support is managed and operated by a U.S.-licensed law firm, ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL. Our mission is to help immigrants and travelers through the complex United States immigration system with our do-it-yourself immigration guides and travel authorization consultancy. We are not affiliated with the United States government. All applicants can apply directly at uscis.gov or travel.state.gov without our assistance. We charge a processing fee of USD 100 per application. The ESTA fee is USD 21, making the total cost per application USD 121.
ESTA Fee: | USD 21 |
Processing Fee: | USD 100 |
Total: | USD 121 |
eVisa for Visiting the United States (ESTA)
The United States’ version of an eVisa to USA is called ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and while not explicitly an eVisa, ESTA shares similarities with the concept of eVisas used in other countries. ESTA functions as an online travel authorization system that grants eligibility for travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to visit the USA for short stays without obtaining a traditional visa. Similarly, eVisas, implemented by various countries worldwide, also facilitate travel authorization through an online platform, allowing visitors to enter the country for specific purposes without a physical visa stamp in their passport. To check if you are eligible for an ESTA, you can use the eligibility form above.
![ESTA Application](https://www.usimmigrationsupport.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Frame-27535.png.pagespeed.ce.hVU16-FAfb.png)
Is ESTA a type of eVisa?
Yes, the ESTA program can be considered a type of eVisa for the USA, but with some fundamental differences. Both ESTA and eVisa are electronic travel authorization systems that facilitate travel without the need for a traditional visa stamp in the passport. However, the main distinction lies in the purpose and scope of these systems:
Scope of Use:
- ESTA: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is specific to the United States and only applicable to travelers from VWP countries.
- eVisa: An eVisa, on the other hand, is a broader concept and implemented by various countries worldwide. Each country has its eVisa program with specific eligibility criteria and requirements.
Eligibility:
- ESTA: Travelers from VWP countries who wish to visit the U.S. for short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or transit purposes are eligible to apply for ESTA.
- eVisa: Each country determines its eVisa eligibility criteria, which may vary widely depending on the purpose of the visit, nationality of the applicant, and the country’s immigration policies.
Duration of Stay:
- ESTA: Travelers approved through ESTA can stay in the United States for up to 90 days per visit.
- eVisa: The permitted duration of stay under an eVisa depends on the issuing country’s regulations and may vary from a few days to several months.
Validity Period:
- ESTA: Once approved, an ESTA is generally valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, travelers can make multiple short visits to the U.S.
- eVisa: The validity of an eVisa varies significantly depending on the issuing country. Some eVisas are single-entry and valid for a specific period, while others may be multiple-entry and have longer validity periods.
Visa Waiver Program Designated Countries
Andorra
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brunei
Chile
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
South Korea
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
San Marino
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom