How can I apply for ESTA from the United Kingdom

Applying for the ESTA visa waiver for UK citizens visiting the US can now be done through a much simpler process that can be finished in under 10 minutes from the comfort of your own home.

The online application for ESTA means UK nationals no longer need to send their passport and various travel documents for US holidays to apply for a visa for the USA from the UK.

Before beginning your online request, you will need to confirm your ESTA eligibility. The applicant must have a valid UK e-passport.

An e-passport contains an electronic chip that holds the same information detailed on your British passport's biographical page. The electronic chip allows the ESTA to be electronically linked to your travel document, enabling the British ESTA holder to travel without the need to print out their US visa waiver.

Once you are sure that you are qualified to apply for an ESTA from the UK, you will need to follow this simple 3-step process:

• With your e-passport in hand, you must access the online ESTA form to begin the application. Fill in your details as well as the information from your passport, then answer the travel and security questions and carefully review the data entered in your form
• Once you have completed the ESTA application form, you will be redirected to the payment page where it is necessary to cover the application fee using a credit or debit card
• Next, you will receive a confirmation e-mail once the US Department of Homeland Security has accepted your ESTA application

With your valid ESTA visa waiver for UK citizens, you will be ready to set off on your trip to the United States.

The ESTA validity period is two years. It is essential to bear in mind that although the ESTA for UK nationals is valid for two years, you must consider the ESTA expiry date in case you need to renew your American visa waiver before traveling to the USA from the UK or another country of residence.

FAQs
 

Do United Kingdom citizens need a visa for the USA?

British citizens do not need a visa to visit the US, but they need to apply online for an electronic authorization. All UK residents need an ESTA to travel to the USA.
 

How long can a UK resident stay in the US?

How long can visitants with a British passport stay in the United States? Visitants from Britain or elsewhere in the United Kingdom can stay in the United States for a maximum of 90 days Per Entry. All visits are stringently limited to business or tourism, so you can NOT seek paid work or employment.
 

Can a British citizen live in the USA?

To become a lawful continual resident of the United States, one must obtain a Green Card. Most immigrants will do so through employment, through family sponsorship, or by being an instant relative. Through these different pathways, immigrants may reside legally in the US.
 

When should I apply for ESTA?

Although your ESTA application can be confirmed in seconds, it's recommended that you apply at least 72 hours before departure. You may want to use it as soon as you decide on travel dates, just in case your travel authorization is denied.