ESTA F.A.Q's



The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a United States government requirement for international travelers who are seeking to travel to the United States. Visas4USA have put together a few FAQs for travelers who still aren’t sure about the ESTA and what it means.

Q) How far in advance should I submit a ESTA application?

A) You must apply for your ESTA no later than 72 hours prior to travelling. Visas4oz recommends you apply for your ESTA as soon as you’ve booked your flights or tickets.

Q) Does the ESTA guarantee entry into the United States?

A) No. That decision rests with the immigration official at the Port of Entry in the same way that travellers currently entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program or with a visa are subject to inspection.

Q) Since when did the ESTA become mandatory?

A) ESTA became mandatory for all qualified Visa Waiver Program travellers entering the United States on January 12, 2009.

Q) How long is the ESTA valid for?

A) If your registration for ESTA is successful, it will be valid for two years or until the date on which your passport expires, which ever comes first.

Q) I am entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico; do I require travel authorisation under ESTA?

A) If you’re entering from Canada or Mexico by land then you won’t be required to obtain travel authorisation.

Q) What information do I need in order to apply for an ESTA?

A) The information required upon ESTA application is as follows:

  • Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Country of citizenship
  • Country of current residence
  • Gender
  • E-mail address
  • Phone number
  • Passport number, issuing country, date of issuance, date of expiration
  • Travel information – departure city, flight number, carrier, address while in the U.S.
  • VWP eligibility questions.

Q) I have previous convictions; can I still register under ESTA?

A) As long as you are qualified to travel under the Visa Waver Program, you are eligible to register for ESTA.

Q) How do I apply for an ESTA?

A) All you need to do is simply visit the application page and fill in the online form. We obtain the ESTA via our secure server before e-mailing a copy to you.

Visit our FAQs page for more FAQs and further information regarding ESTA and entry into the United States.



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