How Much Does an ESTA Cost in 2025?

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Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: how much does an ESTA cost in 2025? Understanding the ESTA fees, payment process, and what’s included in the total cost helps you avoid scams and ensures a smooth application experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the official Esta cost, explain how to pay safely, and share important updates every traveler should know before applying.

What Is ESTA and Why You Need It

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a mandatory online travel authorization for citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who plan to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit. Without an approved ESTA, you won’t be allowed to board your flight or ship to the United States.

Official ESTA Cost in 2025

As of 2025, the official ESTA cost remains $21 USD per application. This fee is set and regulated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — and it applies to each traveler, including children and infants.

The $21 fee is divided into two parts:

$4 Processing Fee: Charged when you submit your ESTA application, whether it’s approved or denied.
$17 Authorization Fee: Charged only if your ESTA application is approved.

If your application is denied, you’ll only be charged the $4 processing fee.

How to Pay for ESTA Online

When applying for ESTA through the official website, you must pay online using one of the accepted payment methods. These typically include:

Credit or Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
PayPal (available for some users)

Make sure your payment method allows international transactions. The charge will appear as a U.S. government transaction, usually under “CBP ESTA” or similar wording.

Be Aware of Third-Party Websites

Many unofficial websites claim to process ESTA applications but often charge much higher fees — sometimes between $70 and $120 USD per application. While some provide assistance with the form, they are not affiliated with the U.S. government.

To avoid overpaying or falling victim to scams:

Always use the official ESTA website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov).
Be cautious of sites that guarantee approval or request extra service fees.
Check for the “.gov” domain before entering your personal or payment information.

ESTA Validity and Cost Effectiveness

Your ESTA is valid for two years from the date of approval or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. This means that during its validity, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. without paying again, as long as each stay is under 90 days.

So, even though the ESTA cost is $21, it can cover multiple visits over two years, making it an affordable and convenient option for frequent travelers.

Refund Policy for ESTA Fees

It’s important to note that ESTA fees are non-refundable. Once you submit your application, you cannot cancel or get your money back — even if your travel plans change. This policy applies regardless of approval or denial.

To avoid unnecessary costs:

Double-check your passport number and personal details before submitting.
Apply for ESTA only when your travel plans are certain.
Make sure your passport will remain valid for at least six months after your arrival in the U.S.

ESTA Renewal and New Applications

You cannot “renew” an ESTA once it expires. Instead, you’ll need to submit a new application and pay the $21 fee again. You also need to reapply if:

You get a new passport.
You change your name, gender, or citizenship.
You answer any eligibility questions differently from your previous application.

Each new application requires a fresh fee, so make sure your details are accurate to avoid repeated payments.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the ESTA itself costs $21, you might also need to budget for other travel-related expenses:

Passport renewal fees, if your passport is expiring soon.
Internet access fees if you apply from a cyber café or public service.
Currency conversion charges from your bank, depending on your payment method.

These small costs can add up, so it’s smart to plan ahead and pay directly through secure and official channels.

Why ESTA Is Worth the Cost

Despite the fee, ESTA offers exceptional value for travelers. It eliminates the need for a traditional visa, reduces waiting times, and simplifies entry procedures into the U.S. The application process takes just minutes and usually provides approval within 72 hours — making it a fast, reliable, and cost-effective choice for eligible travelers.

Tips to Avoid Paying More Than Necessary

Apply early — don’t wait until the last minute, which could tempt you to use expensive third-party services.
Use your own device to avoid hidden service charges or unreliable connections.
Save your application number in case you need to check your status or update details.
Bookmark the official ESTA website for future renewals or reference.

Conclusion

In 2025, the official ESTA cost remains $21 — a small price for the convenience of visa-free travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. To avoid unnecessary expenses, apply only through the official government website, double-check your information before submitting, and use a secure payment method. With a valid ESTA, you can enjoy hassle-free entry into the U.S. for tourism or business, making your journey both smooth and cost-effective.