Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)
For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
The Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) is a US visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee)) and processing time (~Usually within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) is for
For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
No path to a green card; not a visa and cannot be extended or adjusted in most cases.
Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) - eligibility criteria
- Be a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country
- Have an e-passport and valid ESTA approval
- Travel for tourism or business for 90 days or less
- Not have been refused a US visa or denied entry
- Not have certain travel history to restricted countries
Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) (United States) is ~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee), with an indicative processing time of ~Usually within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (ESTA application before travel) |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days per entry, no extensions |
| Work rights | No employment (limited business activities only) |
| Study rights | No course study |
| Government fee | ~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee) |
| Processing time | ~Usually within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel) |
| Route to PR | No path to a green card; not a visa and cannot be extended or adjusted in most cases. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to a green card; not a visa and cannot be extended or adjusted in most cases.
Many applicants also compare B-1/B-2 · B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Business/Tourism), F-1 · F-1 Academic Student Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) pitfalls we fix
Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) cost?
The Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) government fee is ~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~Usually within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) lead to permanent residence?
No path to a green card; not a visa and cannot be extended or adjusted in most cases.
Can I work on the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)?
Work rights: No employment (limited business activities only).
Who can apply for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)?
For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority