Planning a trip to the United States from the UK? Whether it's for tourism, business, or a short stay, travelling to the USA from the UK with ESTA is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to enter the country. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ESTA for the USA from the UK, how to apply, the eligibility criteria, and why ESTA may be the right option for your trip.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This system is available for citizens of participating countries, including the UK. ESTA allows for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes without needing a traditional visa.
If you are a UK citizen traveling to the United States for less than 90 days, the ESTA system makes the visa application process much simpler and faster. Instead of applying for a traditional U.S. visa, UK travelers can fill out an ESTA application online, which can be approved in just a few minutes.
Before you apply for ESTA to the USA from the UK, make sure you meet the following eligibility requirements:
Applying for ESTA from the UK is simple, straightforward, and quick. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to complete the process:
The first step is to visit the official U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s ESTA website. This is the only authorized site for applying, so be cautious of third-party websites.
Once on the ESTA website, you will need to complete the online application form. This form will ask for basic information, including:
You will be required to answer a series of eligibility questions related to your criminal background, health status, and travel history. Answer these truthfully to avoid issues with your application.
After filling out the application form, you will need to pay the ESTA application fee, which is typically $14 USD. You can pay using a credit or debit card. Make sure to keep the payment confirmation for your records.
Once your application is complete and payment has been processed, click submit. In most cases, you will receive your ESTA approval within minutes, although it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your departure.
You will be notified via email about your ESTA approval. In some cases, ESTA applications may be delayed or denied. If this happens, you can apply for a U.S. visa instead.
Once approved, your ESTA for the USA from the UK is valid for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can travel multiple times to the United States, with each stay not exceeding 90 days.
However, if there are significant changes to your personal information, such as a change of name, gender, or passport details, you will need to apply for a new ESTA.
It’s best to apply for ESTA from the UK at least 72 hours before your flight to the United States. Although approval often comes through within minutes, applying in advance gives you peace of mind and ensures there’s no last-minute delay. Remember, you must have an approved ESTA before you can board your flight to the U.S.
If your ESTA application is denied, it doesn’t mean you cannot travel to the U.S. It simply means you cannot enter under the Visa Waiver Program. In this case, you will need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa through the U.S. Embassy in London. The most common visa for UK travelers is the B1/B2 Visitor Visa.
While ESTA is perfect for short-term stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business, some travelers may need a U.S. visa. For instance, if you plan to work, study, or stay in the U.S. for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa.
Travelling to the USA from the UK has never been easier with ESTA. If you're eligible, ESTA allows you to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days without the hassle of applying for a traditional visa. The process is quick, cost-effective, and convenient, making it the ideal option for many UK travelers.
Ready to get started? CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA to the USA online today!