Introduction:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced a change to the fees for ESTA applications. This adjustment affects all travellers from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program.
What is ESTA, and how do I apply for it?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) is an online system that allows travellers from certain countries to enter the USA without a visa. The ESTA application can be easily submitted online via the official CBP website.
New fee structure for ESTA applications
CBP has made a change to the fees for ESTA applications. The new fees are as follows:
Processing fee: $4
Authorisation fee: $17
Total cost: $21
This change is effective immediately and applies to all new ESTA applications. The fee increase will help improve security measures and cover administrative costs.
The following countries are eligible to participate in the Visa Waiver Programme and apply for ESTA:
Andorra
Australia
Belgium
Brunei
Chile
Denmark
Denmark
Germany
Estonia
Finland
Finland France
Greece
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Japan
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
New Zealand
Norway
Netherlands
Austria
Poland
Portugal
San Marino
Sweden
Switzerland
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Korea
South Korea
Taiwan
Czech Republic
Hungary
United Kingdom
What is the ESTA revenue used for?
Most of the revenue is invested in improving and maintaining security measures and technologies. This includes:
- Border security: enhanced security checks and surveillance at US borders.
- Technology upgrades: Modernisation of systems for processing travellers and data.
In addition, the revenue contributes to the promotion of tourism:
- Marketing campaigns: Promoting the USA as a travel destination.
- Tourism development: Support for local and national tourism initiatives.