Getting to Host Countries

The official ESTA fee is currently $40.27 USD and applications should only ever be made through the official US government website. Approval normally arrives within minutes or hours, although the US authorities advise allowing up to 72 hours.

An approved ESTA is generally valid for two years, or until your passport expires if sooner. It allows multiple visits to the United States, with stays of up to 90 days at a time.

When applying, make absolutely sure every detail matches your passport exactly. Be completely honest throughout the application process. Errors or inaccurate information can lead to refusal or problems at the border.

If you are refused an ESTA, you will usually need to apply for a full US visa through the American Embassy in London. Visa appointment availability can be limited, so do not leave this until the last minute.

Upon arrival in the United States, border procedures can feel quite strict compared to some countries. You will normally be photographed and fingerprinted electronically. In many airports, facial recognition technology is now widely used.

Border officers may ask questions about your trip, accommodation, onward travel and finances. This is completely normal.

US Customs and Border Protection officers also have broad powers to inspect electronic devices such as phones and laptops. Refusing access can result in denied entry. Ultimately, the border officer makes the final decision on admission to the country.

If you lose your passport while in the United States, you can apply for an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) through the British Embassy or a British Consulate. However, an ETD does not replace an ESTA.

Importantly, if you leave the United States on an ETD — for example to attend a match in Mexico or Canada — you will generally not be able to re-enter the USA without obtaining a proper visa. Please factor this into your travel plans carefully.