The Online US Valid Validity: How long does an ESTA last?

Updated on Feb 19, 2024 | Online US Visa

An ESTA authorization is valid for two (2) years or until the applicant's passport expires, whichever comes first.  The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) allows passport holders from the 39 Visa Waiver Program nations to travel to the United States for vacation, short-term study, medical, transit, and business purposes without first applying for a visa.

The ESTA makes it simple for people of the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and a handful of other European, South American, and Asian countries to visit the United States. The application form is routinely completed in 10 to 15 minutes, and a decision is made almost immediately. Approximately 99% of applications are accepted.

Online US Visa is an electronic travel authorization or travel permit to visit United States for a period of time upto 90 days and visit these amazing places in United States. International visitors must have an Online US Visa to be able to visit United States many attractions. Foreign citizens can apply for an US Visa Application in a matter of minutes. Online US Visa Application process is automated, simple, and completely online.

How long does an ESTA approval last?

An ESTA authorization is valid for two (2) years or until the applicant's passport expires, whichever comes first. 

This does not imply that a person with an authorized ESTA can stay in the United States for two (2) years. It can only be used once per 90 days. Following that, there is normally a 12-month wait time until the following appointment. Someone who applied for and was granted an ESTA and then visited the US for 90 days will be required to wait 12 months before they may enter the nation with their ESTA.

It should be mentioned at this point that CBP (Customs and Border Protection) has not strictly enforced the 12-month regulation. There is also a relatively simple alternative: someone with an accepted ESTA who spent 90 days in the US and wants to return before the 12-month waiting period expires can simply apply for a U.S. visa.

Any visitor seeking information on coming to the United States or visa-related issues should get legal counsel from a qualified U.S. immigration lawyer.

It is vital to understand that the CBP has the authority to decide who is allowed into the United States and who is not.

The border guard will determine if a "reasonable length of time" has passed between stays. If a border guard suspects that a person is seeking to enter the United States in order to dwell there, the tourist will be denied admission.

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Citizens of 40 countries are eligible for ESTA US Visa. The United States Visa eligbility must be met to obtain the visa to travel to USA. A valid passport is required for entry into USA. Learn more at ESTA US Visa Eligible Countries.

When is the ideal time to apply for an ESTA?

Someone who desires to travel to the United States must carefully arrange the schedule of the ESTA application to ensure the most of their stay and provide adequate time for any potential delays in obtaining authorization to visit the United States.

Even though the minimum necessary time for an ESTA application to be accepted is 72 hours, it is best to submit your application as soon as possible if it is denied and you need to apply for a US visa instead.

Visitors who plan to stay in the United States for more than 90 days must apply for a visa from the outset, as stays of this length are not permitted with an ESTA.

It is critical to remember the following: Overstaying an ESTA will almost certainly result in disqualification from the Visa Waiver Program.

In the future, he or she may be denied admission at a US border crossing. Aside from that, overstaying your ESTA may make it difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a U.S. visa.

Can I prolong my stay in the United States by visiting other countries in the region?

Visits to other nations in the region, such as Mexico, Canada, or even the Caribbean, before first returning to your native country will certainly be treated by CBP border guards as part of your 90-day U.S. stay. 

They are aware that tourists employ this approach to extend their 90-day trips, as well as using these methods that will almost certainly result in the visitor being refused when he or she returns to visit the U.S. again.

Individuals who truly would really like to incorporate a trip to Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean with a 90-day stay in the USA may be better off planning their itinerary so that they are not required to return to the United States, as it is extremely unlikely that they will be granted any lenient treatment if they overstay by even a single day.

Can an ESTA be renewed in the United States?

No. An ESTA cannot be prolonged outside or within the United States. The ESTA application must be filled out and submitted before a traveler enters the United States or one of its regions.

If an individual's ESTA or passport expires while they are in the nation, they do not need to submit a new ESTA application well before the conclusion of the 90 days.

The US ESTA - Key Points that you must keep in mind:

  • The United States Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a program run by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a traditional visa. ESTA is a quick and convenient way for eligible travelers to obtain authorization to enter the U.S. for short stays.
  • One important aspect of ESTA is its duration. ESTA is valid for a period of two (2) years from the date it is granted, or until the expiration date of the passport used in the application, whichever comes first. This means that travelers who are approved for ESTA can use it for multiple trips to the U.S. during the two (2) year validity period, as long as their passport remains valid.
  • However, it is essential to note that just because an ESTA is valid for two (2) years, it does not mean that the traveler is allowed to stay in the U.S. for two years. ESTA authorizes a traveler to enter the U.S. for stays of up to 90 days at a time for business or pleasure. If the traveler wishes to stay longer, they must obtain a different type of visa.
  • ESTA is a helpful tool for eligible travelers, but it is not a guarantee of admission to the U.S. The DHS retains the right to deny entry to any traveler, even if they have a valid ESTA. Factors that may influence the DHS’s decision include the traveler’s criminal history, prior immigration violations, or ties to terrorist organizations.
  • It is also important to understand that ESTA is only valid for travel to the U.S. for the purposes of tourism or business. If a traveler has another purpose for their trip, such as study or work, they must obtain a different type of visa.
  • It is also possible for an ESTA to be revoked at any time, even after it has been granted. This may happen if the traveler’s circumstances change, such as if they are convicted of a crime or if they become a security risk. In such cases, the traveler may no longer be eligible to travel to the U.S. using ESTA.
  • Finally, it is important for travelers to apply for ESTA well in advance of their trip to the U.S. The DHS recommends applying for ESTA at least 72 hours before travel, as processing times can vary, and there is no guarantee of how long it will take to receive an ESTA. Additionally, travelers should ensure that all of their information is up-to-date and accurate, as incorrect information on the ESTA application can result in a denial of entry to the U.S.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Online USA Visa. Get answers to the most common questions about the requirements, important information and documents required to travel to United States. Learn more at US Visa Online Frequently Asked Questions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the duration of a US ESTA is two (2) years, or until the expiration date of the passport used in the application, whichever comes first. 

It is important for eligible travelers to understand the limitations of ESTA and to apply for it well in advance of their trip. ESTA can provide a convenient and quick way to obtain authorization to enter the U.S. for tourism or business purposes, but it is not a guarantee of admission and can be revoked at any time.

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Applicants should submit an online application for a US tourist visa if they want to travel there. Citizens travelling from overseas to nations that do not require visas must first apply for a US tourist visa online, often known as an ESTA. Learn more at US Tourist Visa.


French citizens, German citizens, Greek citizens, and Italian citizens can apply online for ESTA US Visa.