If we are thinking of traveling to the United States, we may need to apply for ESTA, ESTA means “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” or in Spanish, Electronic System for travel authorization. Next, we will see what it is, what it is for and how to apply for the ESTA online.
The ESTA is not a visa, but rather a travel permit / authorization issued by the US to know whether or not we can travel to the US. Processing this permit is mandatory for all those who are going to travel to the US. On the other hand, logically if we are denied, for some reason they will not let us enter the country.
On the other hand, that they accept the ESTA permit, does not mean that when we get there we can enter the country directly , but that the final decision is made at the airport access control.
The authorization is valid for two years from the date it is valid for us. On the other hand, all travelers must request ESTA authorization, even minors. We must bear in mind that the request for said permit has a cost of $ 14 per person.
Apply for ESTA permission online
Next, we will show you how to apply for the ESTA:
- First, we will access its official page.
Web: ESTA Form
- Next, a fairly extensive form will appear which we must complete with the required information.
- Afterwards, we must confirm all the data and review them.
- Finally, we will make the payment of the 14 dollars by the indicated method that will be a credit or debit card such as Visa, Maestro, MasterCard, American Express …
- After having made the payment, in our email we will receive the status of the document and we will be informed when the permission is ready , either to tell us that they accept said permission or the opposite.
It is important to note that the ESTA permit / authorization is not a visa and in certain cases allows us to exempt ourselves from obtaining the visa.
The time in which the ESTA permit is reviewed and granted or denied is really short, it takes more or less 72 hours , although as it has a wide validity, it is advisable to request it as soon as possible.
