How to Apply for a U.S. ESTA: Travel to the U.S. Without a Visa

Table of Contents

1. What is ESTA?
2. Eligibility for ESTA
3. How to Apply for ESTA
4. ESTA Fees
5. Important Precautions
6. After ESTA Approval
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is ESTA?

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an electronic travel authorization system for travelers under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of countries under the VWP, including South Korea, can visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa, provided they get ESTA approval in advance.

Eligibility for ESTA

To apply for ESTA, you must meet the following criteria:

• Passport Requirements: Must have an electronic passport with an MRZ code.
• Travel Purpose: Tourism, business, or transit for stays of 90 days or less.
• Country Requirements: Must be a citizen of a VWP-participating country.
• Other Conditions:
  • No prior U.S. visa refusals.
  • No previous deportations from the U.S.
  • No criminal record.

How to Apply for ESTA

1. Visit the Official ESTA Website: Go to https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
2. Select Language: Choose ‘English’ or another preferred language.
3. Complete the Application:
   • Personal Information: Enter your full name, gender, date of birth, and passport details accurately.
   • Travel Information: Input travel purpose and estimated date of arrival.
   • Answer Questions: Respond to health, criminal record, and eligibility questions.
4. Provide Contact Details: Enter your email address and phone number.
5. Pay Fees: Use a credit or debit card to pay the ESTA fees.
6. Submit the Application: Review all information carefully and submit.

ESTA Fees

ESTA application fees are as follows:

In practice, the total fee is usually $21. Some official sites include the $4 authorization fee within this amount. As a tip from e