How Much is an ESTA for the USA from the UK?

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If you are a UK citizen planning to visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you may be wondering how much an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) will cost. In this article, we'll cover the cost of an ESTA for the USA from the UK, the payment process, and what the fee includes.

What is an ESTA for the USA from the UK?

An ESTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, including the United Kingdom, to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes without the need for a visa. The ESTA is valid for up to 90 days per visit and can be used for multiple trips within two years, as long as your passport remains valid.

How Much Does an ESTA for the USA from the UK Cost?

As of 2025, the cost of an ESTA for the USA from the UK is:

$21 USD per application

This fee is a flat fee for each applicant and includes the processing of your ESTA application. It is important to note that the fee may be subject to change, so always check the official U.S. government website before applying.

What Does the ESTA Fee Include?

The $21 fee covers the following:

  1. Application Processing: This is the cost for processing your ESTA application.
  2. Authorization Fee: If approved, the ESTA authorization will be linked to your passport and remain valid for two years.
  3. Approval Review: Your application is reviewed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to determine whether you meet the Visa Waiver Program criteria.
  4. Instant and Automated Approval: Most ESTA applications are approved instantly or within minutes, with some taking up to 72 hours for processing.

How Can You Pay for Your ESTA Application?

You can pay the $21 fee online using the following methods:

  • Credit Card: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, etc.
  • Debit Card: Some debit cards are accepted.
  • PayPal: You can also use PayPal to pay for the ESTA application.

It's important to ensure that you are applying through the official U.S. government ESTA website to avoid extra charges from third-party websites. Some third-party websites may charge higher fees or offer additional services that you may not need.

Can I Get a Refund for My ESTA Fee?

Once you have submitted your ESTA application and the fee has been processed, it is non-refundable, even if your ESTA is denied or you do not use the authorization. It's important to double-check all information on your application before submitting it to avoid mistakes that may lead to a denied ESTA.

Are There Additional Costs Associated with ESTA?

The official ESTA fee is $21 USD, but there may be additional costs to consider:

  1. Passport Fees: If you don’t already have a valid biometric passport, you will need to apply for one before you can use the ESTA. The cost for a standard adult UK passport is £93 (as of 2025).
  2. Visa Application Fee: If you are not eligible for an ESTA and need to apply for a U.S. visa, the application fee is significantly higher. For example, the B1/B2 visa costs $185 USD.
  3. Third-Party Service Fees: Some unofficial websites charge additional fees for processing your ESTA, which may include extra services like application assistance or expedited processing.

To avoid paying unnecessary extra charges, always apply for your ESTA through the official ESTA website.

Why Is There a Fee for ESTA?

The $21 ESTA fee is used to cover the operational costs of processing your application and maintaining the electronic authorization system. The fee also supports the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in ensuring that only travelers who meet specific security and eligibility criteria are allowed entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

How to Apply for an ESTA for the USA from the UK?

The process of applying for an ESTA is simple and straightforward. Here's how you can apply:

  1. Visit the Official ESTA Website: Go to the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website to apply.
  2. Complete the Application Form: Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Answer questions about your health, criminal record, and previous U.S. travel.
  3. Pay the $21 Fee: Use a valid credit card or PayPal to pay for your application.
  4. Submit the Application: After submitting, most applications are processed instantly, but some may take up to 72 hours.
  5. Receive Approval: Once approved, your ESTA will be electronically linked to your passport. You do not need a physical copy, but it’s recommended to keep a copy of the confirmation email.

Frequently Asked Questions About ESTA Cost

1. How long does it take to get an ESTA for the USA from the UK?

Most ESTA applications are processed instantly. However, it can take up to 72 hours for some applications to be approved, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

2. Is the ESTA fee refundable?

No, the $21 ESTA fee is non-refundable, even if your ESTA application is denied.

3. Can I apply for an ESTA for someone else?

Yes, you can apply for an ESTA on behalf of someone else, such as a family member or friend, as long as you have the required information (passport details, travel plans, etc.).

4. Do children need to pay for an ESTA?

Yes, children of any age traveling to the U.S. must have their own ESTA. The $21 fee applies to each individual, regardless of age.

5. What happens if my ESTA is denied?

If your ESTA is denied, you will not be able to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. You will need to apply for a U.S. visa instead, which has a higher application fee.

Conclusion: How Much Does ESTA for USA from UK Cost?

The cost of an ESTA for the USA from the UK is $21 USD per person. This fee covers the application processing, authorization review, and electronic linkage to your passport.

Make sure to apply through the official U.S. government ESTA website to avoid additional charges from third-party services. Also, always check your passport's validity and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Visa Waiver Program.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully obtain your ESTA and enjoy a hassle-free visit to the United States.

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