How to Get an ESTA for USA from UK: A Complete Guide

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If you are a UK citizen planning to visit the United States, you may be eligible to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This allows you to travel to the USA without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

This detailed guide explains how to get an ESTA for USA from UK, including the eligibility criteria, application process, fees, validity, and important travel requirements.

What is an ESTA for USA from UK?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated travel authorization for citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, including the United Kingdom. It determines whether travelers can enter the USA without a visa for short stays.

✔ Allows visa-free travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days.
✔ Valid for tourism, business, medical visits, or transit.
✔ Faster and easier than applying for a U.S. visa.
✔ Valid for multiple trips within a two-year period.

If you are not eligible for an ESTA or plan to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa instead.

Who is Eligible for an ESTA for USA from UK?

To qualify for an ESTA as a UK citizen, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Passport Requirements

✔ You must have a biometric (e-passport) with an electronic chip.
✔ Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
✔ If you hold a British Overseas Territories passport, you may need to apply for a U.S. visa instead.

2. General ESTA Eligibility Criteria

✔ You must be a British citizen with a valid UK passport.
✔ You must be traveling for tourism, business, or transit.
✔ Your stay must be 90 days or less.
✔ You must not have a criminal record, prior U.S. visa denial, or past immigration violations.
✔ You must not have visited certain restricted countries (e.g., Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea) since March 1, 2011.

If you do not meet these criteria, you will need to apply for a U.S. visa instead of an ESTA.

How to Get an ESTA for USA from UK – Step-by-Step Process

Applying for an ESTA as a UK citizen is a simple online process that takes about 15-20 minutes. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official ESTA Website

  • Go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website.
  • Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees.

Step 2: Complete the ESTA Application Form

  • Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, passport number).
  • Provide travel details (U.S. contact information, flight details if available).
  • Answer security and eligibility questions (health, criminal history, previous U.S. travel).

Step 3: Pay the ESTA Fee

  • The ESTA fee for UK citizens is $21 per person.
  • Payment options: Credit card, debit card, or PayPal.

Step 4: Submit the Application and Wait for Approval

  • Most ESTA applications are approved instantly or within minutes.
  • Some may take up to 72 hours to process.
  • Once approved, your ESTA is electronically linked to your passport—no need to print it.

Tip: Apply at least 72 hours before your departure to avoid last-minute delays.

How Long is an ESTA Valid for UK Citizens?

✔ An ESTA is valid for two years from the date of approval.
✔ You can make multiple trips to the U.S. within this period.
✔ Each visit must be 90 days or less.
✔ If your passport expires before your ESTA, you must apply for a new ESTA with your updated passport.

Rules for Traveling to the USA with an ESTA from the UK

✔ You must have a return or onward ticket proving you will leave the U.S. within 90 days.
✔ You must not work or study while in the U.S. on an ESTA.
✔ You must have sufficient funds to cover your trip.
✔ You must follow U.S. customs and border entry regulations.

If you want to stay longer than 90 days, work, or study in the U.S., you must apply for a U.S. visa instead.

ESTA vs. U.S. Visa: What’s the Difference?

FeatureESTA (Visa Waiver)U.S. Visa (B1/B2)
PurposeTourism, business, transitTourism, business, study, work
ApplicationOnline (ESTA website)U.S. embassy or consulate
Processing TimeInstant to 72 hoursSeveral weeks to months
Validity2 years (multiple entries)10 years (for some visa types)
Max Stay Per Visit90 days6 months (varies)
Cost$21 per person$185+ depending on visa type

If you need to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a U.S. visa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting an ESTA for USA from UK

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

Most ESTA applications are approved instantly. However, some may take up to 72 hours for processing.

2. Can I extend my ESTA stay beyond 90 days?

No, the ESTA cannot be extended. If you need a longer stay, you must apply for a U.S. visa.

3. Do children need an ESTA to travel to the U.S.?

Yes, all travelers, including infants, must have an ESTA. Each ESTA costs $21 per person.

4. What happens if my ESTA is denied?

If your ESTA is denied, you must apply for a U.S. visa at the U.S. embassy in London.

5. Can I travel to the U.S. multiple times with the same ESTA?

Yes, your ESTA is valid for multiple trips over two years, as long as each stay is 90 days or less.

6. Do I need to print my ESTA approval?

No, your ESTA is electronically linked to your passport. However, it is recommended to keep a copy of your approval email.

Final Tips for Getting an ESTA for USA from UK

✔ Apply early—at least 72 hours before travel.
✔ Use the official ESTA website to avoid scams.
✔ Ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay.
✔ Follow U.S. immigration rules to avoid entry issues.

By following these steps, you can easily get your ESTA for USA from UK and enjoy a hassle-free trip to the United States! Whether you're visiting for business, tourism, or transit, the ESTA offers a simple and convenient way for British citizens to travel to the USA without a visa.

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Start your journey today by applying for your visa online — quick, easy, and hassle-free! Get approved in no time and focus on what matters most: your travel adventure.

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