The fee for the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will increase from $21 to $40 on Sept. 30, 2025, the US government has announced, affecting visitors travelling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
The rise follows legislation passed by the US Congress and will apply to travellers from roughly 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, who visit the United States for business or pleasure for up to 90 days. Travellers who submit and receive an approved ESTA before Sept. 29 will still pay the current $21 fee, officials said.
An approved ESTA permits multiple short visits of up to 90 days each and is valid for two years or until the traveller's passport expires, whichever comes first. Applicants must complete the online form on the official US government ESTA website; processing can take up to 72 hours in some cases, though some approvals arrive within minutes.
Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of Advantage Travel Partnership, said travellers planning trips to the US in the next two years could avoid the higher charge by securing their ESTA before the deadline. "The US authorities have officially announced that, as of 30th September 2025, the fee for obtaining an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will increase from $21 to $40," she said. "With significant changes like this, it's crucial that travellers stay informed, and this is where booking through a trusted travel agent becomes especially valuable. Agents not only help navigate evolving entry requirements such as ESTA but also ensure travellers remain fully compliant and avoid unexpected costs or complications down the line."
Kerry Manley of Journeyscape advised applicants to allow time for processing and to use only the official ESTA website to prevent extra charges and scams. "The key is to apply early, ideally at least a week before your departure, to account for any unexpected delays," she said. "Double-checking your details—such as passport information and travel itinerary—can prevent common mistakes that lead to denials."
The ESTA is distinct from a traditional visa and applies only to travellers eligible under the VWP. Those not eligible must apply for the appropriate nonimmigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate. The change in the ESTA fee does not alter other entry requirements, such as passport validity rules or customs and immigration checks at ports of entry.
Travel industry groups have warned that higher entry costs could affect visitor numbers, particularly among budget-conscious tourists. The timing of the fee increase ahead of the northern hemisphere autumn and winter travel seasons may prompt a short-term rush of applications from travellers seeking to lock in the lower fee.
Officials encourage travellers to verify requirements and timelines on the official US government websites and to complete ESTA applications well before travel dates to avoid delays or unexpected costs.