Apply for ESTA here | Electronic System for Travel Authorization

ESTA is an electronic travel authorization system required for short-term travel to the United States. Officially known as the "Electronic System for Travel Authorization," it was introduced in January 2009 under the jurisdiction of the DHS (U.S. Department of Homeland Security). ESTA requires all foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. without a visa to apply online in advance. The U.S. designates allied countries as eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Citizens of VWP countries are exempt from obtaining a visa for a stay of up to 90 days when traveling to the U.S., including Hawaii, for tourism or short-term business purposes. When you travel to the U.S., you are required to apply for ESTA online and obtain a "Travel Authorization" in advance. However, VWP subjects who fall under the following categories are not allowed to travel to the U.S. using ESTA. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.

• Those who have traveled to or stayed in Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen, or Cuba on or after March 1, 2011 (unless you traveled to these countries to perform official duties as a military or government employee of a country covered by the VWP)
• Dual nationals who are nationals of a VWP country and either Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Sudan, or Syria.

The DHS (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) recommends that you apply for ESTA at least three days prior to travel and obtain a "Travel Authorization”. ESTA is required for all travelers to the U.S., including Hawaii, regardless of age, so we recommend that you apply as soon as possible. ESTA is under the jurisdiction of the DHS (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) and the CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection). Please note that the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General are not available to answer questions or inquiries.