The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) lets citizens of around 40 partner countries visit the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a full visa. Instead, they get an online travel authorisation called ESTA.
What is ESTA?
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an online pre-screening you complete before you fly. It is not a visa — it's permission to board under the Visa Waiver Program. Approval is usually quick (up to 72 hours), valid for two years (or until your passport expires), and allows multiple short visits.
Who can use it?
Only citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries holding an e-passport (chip passport). The current fee is $40.27 per applicant — a $4 processing fee plus a $36.27 authorisation fee charged on approval. Everyone pays the same, including children.
Not from a VWP country? (e.g. India)
Many countries — including India — are not in the Visa Waiver Program, so ESTA isn't available. Travellers from these countries need a proper visitor visa, usually a B-1/B-2, which involves a DS-160 application, a fee, and an in-person interview. It's more involved than an ESTA, but it's the correct route — and exactly the kind of process City Bridge helps you prepare for.
Important limits
- ESTA is for short visits only — no work, no study, no extensions beyond 90 days.
- You need an approved ESTA even to transit through a U.S. airport.
- Overstaying can cost you future Visa Waiver eligibility.
Not sure whether you need an ESTA or a visa? Book a consultation and we'll map the right route for your nationality and trip.
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