How to Fill Out an ESTA Application

If you are planning to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you'll need to fill out an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application. This online authorization allows travelers from VWP countries to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes without needing a visa. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to fill out an ESTA application, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.

What is an ESTA?

The ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of travelers to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It is not a visa but a travel authorization that allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit. The ESTA application is completed online and can be used for multiple trips to the U.S. during its two-year validity period, or until your passport expires.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out an ESTA Application

Filling out an ESTA application is relatively simple, but there are some important steps to follow. Here’s how to fill out the application form:

1. Access the Official ESTA Website

First, ensure you’re on the official ESTA website to avoid third-party fees. You can access the website directly through the U.S. government’s official site:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

2. Start a New Application

Once you're on the website, click the “Apply for ESTA” button to start a new application. You’ll be prompted to provide basic information and complete the required fields.

3. Enter Personal Information

The first part of the ESTA application requires you to provide personal details, including:

• Full name: Enter your full name as it appears on your passport. Make sure there are no errors in spelling.
• Gender: Select your gender.
• Date of birth: Enter your date of birth in the specified format (MM/DD/YYYY).
• Country of citizenship: Select your country of citizenship from the drop-down menu.
• Passport details: You’ll need to provide information about your passport, including:
  • Passport number
  • Passport issuing country
  • Passport issuance and expiration dates
  • Passport type (tourist, diplomatic, etc.)

4. Provide Travel Information

Next, the application will ask for information about your travel plans. This section includes:

• Flight details: If you have a confirmed flight to the U.S., provide the flight number and the name of the airline. If not, you can skip this section for now.
• Address in the U.S.: You’ll need to provide the address of where you will be staying during your visit. This could be the address of a hotel, friend, or family member. If you are just transiting through, you can indicate the transit details.

5. Answer Eligibility Questions

This section of the ESTA application asks you a series of eligibility questions related to your criminal history, health, and past travel to the U.S. The questions include:

• Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?
• Do you have any communicable diseases?
• Have you ever overstayed a visa or been denied entry to the U.S. before?
• Are you traveling to the U.S. for a purpose that violates the Visa Waiver Program?

These questions are critical to determine your eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program. Answer them honestly and accurately. If you answer "Yes" to any of these questions, you may be denied ESTA approval, but you can apply for a U.S. visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate.

6. Provide Emergency Contact Information

You’ll be asked to provide the name, phone number, and relationship of an emergency contact in case of unexpected situations. While this is not always required, it’s a good idea to fill it out in case any issues arise during your travels.

7. Review Your Application

After filling out all the required fields, take time to review your application for accuracy. Ensure that your passport details, personal information, and responses to eligibility questions are correct. If you notice any mistakes, fix them before moving forward.

8. Pay the ESTA Application Fee

Once you’ve reviewed your application, you’ll be prompted to pay the ESTA application fee, which is typically around $21. Payment can be made using a credit card or PayPal.

After completing the payment, your application will be submitted for processing.

9. Submit Your Application

Click the "Submit" button to finalize your application. Once your ESTA is processed, you will receive one of three possible responses:

• Approved: Your ESTA has been approved, and you can print or save your approval notice. Note that approval does not guarantee entry into the U.S.; that decision is made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry.
• Pending: In rare cases, your application may be marked as pending. If this happens, the system will notify you that the decision will be made within 72 hours.
• Denied: If your application is denied, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

10. Check Your ESTA Status

Once you submit your ESTA application, you can track its status online. If you want to check or update your information after submission, simply visit the ESTA website and enter your application number or passport details.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When filling out the ESTA application, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect Passport Information: Ensure that your passport details are accurate, including the expiration date. A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of arrival in the U.S.
• Missing or Inaccurate Travel Information: Double-check flight details and accommodation information to avoid delays or complications.
• Answering Eligibility Questions Incorrectly: Answer the eligibility questions truthfully. If you have any criminal history or visa issues in the past, apply for a visa instead of ESTA.

How to Correct Your ESTA Application

If you notice an error after submission, you can correct certain fields in your ESTA application. However, once the application is processed and approved, no further changes can be made to it. If your travel plans change, you may need to apply for a new ESTA or visa.

Conclusion

Filling out the ESTA application is a straightforward process, but accuracy and attention to detail are key to ensuring your travel authorization is approved. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can easily complete your ESTA application and be one step closer to your U.S. trip. Remember, apply well in advance to give yourself time to resolve any unexpected issues or delays. Safe travels!

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