United States of America. ESTA – Additional fee, how much do I have to pay?

ESTA is a web-based system through which people intend to come to it from the United States Under the Visa Waiver Program, they can obtain an electronic entry permit prior to travel. It is about short tourist and business trips of up to 90 days. “Thanks to the ESTA, it is possible to carry out the initial examination of travelers more effectively and efficiently” – we read on the website of the US Embassy in Poland.

ESTA is required of travelers from all 39 Visa Waiver Program countries, including Poland.

From May 26 this year. The ESTA application fee will increase from $14 to $21. Fee in this amount will apply through fall 2027. Because the $7 fare increase is relatively small compared to the cost of travel to the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection expects that the fare increase will not adversely affect travel to the United States.

As shown, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the average annual number of ESTA approved applications was about 15 million. In 2020-2021, it decreased significantly. In 2020, there were more than 6.3 million applications, and in 2021 – only about 1.3 million. The authorities expect the number of approved applications to return this year to pre-pandemic levels. In turn, in 2025 the number will exceed 16 million.

The visa is still required for any other purpose of travel, including a stay of more than 90 days or intending to work or study in the United States. For those applying for a tourist or business visa, the fee is $160.