Almost 4 million Brits go to the United States yearly, crossing the pond for everything from procuring excursions in NYC to ranch stays in the nation’s desertscapes. However, in contrast to many journeys to our European neighbours, journeys to the USA require a bit more planning.
In order to enter the USA, travellers are required to acquire both a visa or an ESTA. The latter applies to most British and European jetsetters.
However, issues are about to get a bit pricier. A legislative package deal accredited by the US Congress in July 2025 implies that, as of Tuesday 30 September, the value of an ESTA rises from $21 (about £16) to $40 (about £30).
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Here, we glance into what precisely an ESTA is, the necessities for acquiring one, and the routes to apply.
What is an ESTA?
ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, and is described by gov.uk as an ‘automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Travellers planning to holiday in, or transit through, the United States via air, sea, or land must have an approved ESTA to access ports of entry.
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What are the current ESTA Requirements?
For travellers entering the USA on a full ‘British citizen’ passport, gov.uk outlines the newest necessities.