ESTA approved? Officers still decide on arrival

CBP describes ESTA as an automated system that determines eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It doesn't determine whether you are admissible: CBP officers determine that on arrival.

You can apply at any time before travel. CBP recommends applying as soon as you begin preparing your plans, or before buying airline tickets.

Example

Illustrative. Trip planned for June, tickets on sale in February: apply in January, then book. Budget the trip only after the answer comes back.

Important

You must have an e-Passport, with the chip symbol on the cover, to use the Visa Waiver Program. If you aren't eligible for it, ESTA isn't your route.

Before you book

• ☐ Check your country is in the program
• ☐ Check your passport has the chip symbol
• ☐ Apply on the official site only
• ☐ Budget after you get the answer

Travel budget template →

Source: cbp.gov, Electronic System for Travel Authorization. This isn't legal advice; the decision is the authority's.