ESTA stands for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.
To cut a long story short, the ESTA is an electronic resource that allows you to travel to the United States without a visa.
“What’s the Catch?” Again, I hear you!
First of all, the number one criteria that must be fulfilled – being from one of these 39 countries that take part in the Visa Waiver Programme!
Only citizens of the countries listed can apply for such.
If you want to travel to the US, but you’re not from one of those countries, you will require a visa to travel, and you will not be able to apply for ESTA.
There is One More Catch
To apply, you must have an electronic passport with a full biographical page with your biometric data inside.
Failure to possess an electronic passport, or have the correct biographic data, again, ensures that you will have to apply for a visa.
What’s the difference between ESTA and visa?
There are quite a few differences.
Time
First and foremost, the application process is a lot quicker for ESTA. The application process only takes around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Applicants are required to fill in one online application. The results of that application can take as little as seconds to come through after completion.
Compare that to a visa – applicants will be expected to travel to the embassy or consulate, amongst completing several online applications.
Not to mention, some visa applications take up to three months to process.
On a side note, if you’re planning a trip to the US, it is essential to apply at least 72 hours before you depart.
Applications can be processed within seconds; however, seldom they can take up to 72 hours. Better to be safe than sorry!
Cost
This one is simple. You may be thinking, “How much does it cost?”. It costs $14. That’s $4 for the processing of the applications. $10 authorization charge.
If you’re denied entry, you’ll only be charged $4.
A visa, on the other hand, usually costs over $100. Visas are rarely refunded if the applicant is denied entry. There is only one winner in this section.
Functionality
The winner of this topic is subjective. Why? Because both have different uses.
ESTA can be used by tourists, those with business to attend to and those that have a connecting flight that lands in the US.
Visas are traditionally used for those that want to work or study in the US. That is not something you can do with an ESTA.
If you want to work or study, you will have to obtain a visa. But, if you want to visit the US, travel around or have a business to attend to, then obviously the ESTA is the choice for you.
Additional Information
Apart from the comparison between the visa and ESTA, there are also some extra snippets of information that are considered to be valuable for travelers.
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How long does it last?
From the moment it is issued, it will be valid for two years unless the holders’ passport expires within that time frame.
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How do I check my status?
Once you have completed your ESTA application, you can log onto the official site and check if your ESTA has been granted by entering your application number, your name, and date of birth.
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Do I need to renew it?
In short, no. You cannot just renew your ESTA. You have to reapply for your ESTA each time it expires.
Where can I apply for the ESTA?
You can apply for your ESTA today at the official US government site. Also, check this site that has an Eligibility check process, with eligibility questions and all necessary information.
Applications for ESTA can only be completed online. Therefore, an internet connection is required.
Furthermore, you can only pay for your ESTA application with certain types of cards via MasterCard, Visa, Discover (JCB, Diners Club), and American Express. If your ESTA is rejected, you will only be charged $4.
Check this informative infographic.
Also, read Moving to the US from Overseas for College – A Guide if you plan to go to the US for college.