The US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) now costs US$40.27, up from US$21. Here's what you pay, what you get and how to apply in 2026.
How much does an ESTA cost in 2026?
According to the official ESTA website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov), the fee has three parts:
Processing fee: US$10.27. Every applicant pays this.
Authorisation fee: US$30. You only pay this if your ESTA is approved. It is made up of the US$17 travel promotion fee and a new US$13 fee.
If your application is refused, you only pay the US$10.27 processing fee.
What changed?
The increase comes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21), passed in July 2025. It added the new US$13 fee and raised the processing fee, taking the total from US$21 to US$40.27. CBP scheduled its systems to start charging the new amount on 1 January 2026.
I already have an ESTA. Do I need to apply again?
No. An approved ESTA stays valid until it expires. You'll pay the new fee (US$40.27) the next time you apply.
How long is an ESTA valid?
An approved ESTA is generally valid for 2 years, or until your passport expires if that's sooner. It covers multiple trips of up to 90 days each.
Who needs an ESTA?
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days need an approved ESTA before they board. If you aren't eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you need a US visitor visa (B-1/B-2) instead.
How to apply
Apply on the official ESTA website, esta.cbp.dhs.gov, or let MyVisitVisa check and submit your application for you. Apply as soon as you've booked your trip, so a delay doesn't affect your flight.
MyVisitVisa is a private company, not a government agency. Our total price includes the US$40.27 government fee and our service fee.