Traveling to the USA is always an exciting adventure. Whether it’s visiting New York, camping in Yosemite National Park, or horseback riding in the great wild plains of the American West, everything in this country is conducive to wonder. But in the land of the dollar, the American dream comes at a price, and it can be rather high. In addition to the plane ticket, hotel room cost, or RV rental, you also need to consider the cost of your authorization to travel to the USA. If you are among those who can apply for an ESTA authorization instead of a tourist visa, you will be able to make a substantial saving, as the price of an ESTA application is much lower than the $185 fee for an American visa.
How much does an ESTA cost and where to apply? The answer is in the rest of this article.
How Much an ESTA Costs: Different Prices for Different Services
Let’s remember that to be eligible for ESTA authorization, you must be a citizen of a country that is a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), established by the American government. Citizens of the 41 countries covered by this visa waiver program do not have to go to the American embassy or consulate to apply for a USA visa. The price of an ESTA is already reduced due to the costs that this visit to the US embassy can incur, especially if you have to travel a great distance to get there.
Also, remember that ESTA is only valid for a temporary stay for a specific purpose. Indeed, you must travel to the United States for a tourist stay or a business trip of 90 days maximum. Transit through the USA to your final destination also requires you to make an application.
The Price of an ESTA on the Official US Government Website
If you choose to apply for an ESTA on the official website, the ESTA costs $21 for each authorization issued. Payment can be made by credit card or PayPal after completing the ESTA form.
To know the response of the American authorities to your authorization request, you will need to return to the site within 72 hours to check your ESTA status. To do this, you need to have your application number. If you don’t have the application number, you can enter your passport number, the issuing country name, the issue date, the expiration date, and your date of birth.
Expenses That Can Be Added to the Price of ESTA
The price of the ESTA itself is not the only expense to consider in the procedure.
One of the mandatory conditions for obtaining it is to have a valid passport.
Security measures in terms of traveler identification require that it be a biometric passport or an electronic passport. There is no way to escape this internal security condition. You cannot enter American soil with ESTA if you do not have this document.
Obtaining a new passport can take more than a month and especially cost €86 for an adult and between €17 and €42 for a minor. If you plan to travel to the United States of America with children, each family member must have a passport in their name to be able to enter American territory. Young children and infants are no exception.
As we said, going to the USA represents a significant cost, but it is quickly forgotten once your head is filled with unforgettable memories. Don’t hesitate and have a great trip!
