U.S. Travel Authorization Service
Help Center
Help

Find more info about how to answer each question below:

Select your nationality from the dropdown list. This information is used to determine the visa requirements and applicable fees.

Select the type of visa you're applying for. The various types include different durations and entry types. Make sure to choose the one that matches your travel plans.

Enter your first name and middle name exactly as they appear in your passport, using letters A-Z.

Enter your last name exactly as it appears in your passport, using letters A-Z. If you don't have a last name, enter "N/A."

Select your date of birth from the dropdown menus. Make sure this matches the date of birth listed in your passport.

Enter your email address. We'll use this to send you updates about your application. You won't be enrolled in any promotional messages unless you click the checkbox below.

Enter your email address. We'll use this to send you updates about your application. You won't be enrolled in any promotional messages unless you click the checkbox below.

Enter your passport number exactly as shown on your passport. Include all letters and numbers without spaces.

Select the date your passport was issued. This must match the issue date printed on your passport.

Select your passport expiry date. Make sure your passport is valid for your planned travel duration.
Processing Options

ESTA Processing Timelines & Tiers

We offer tiered processing options designed to accommodate every departure timeline — from well-planned holidays to last-minute business travel.

Standard

36 hours

Ideal for travelers with confirmed plans weeks ahead. Your application receives thorough specialist review and is submitted for processing within the standard queue.

Rush

9 hours

For travelers whose departure is approaching. Your application is elevated to our priority review queue and processed ahead of standard submissions.

Super Rush

3 hours

Our fastest available tier. Your application receives immediate specialist attention and is submitted for expedited processing within hours of completion.

Variables That Influence Timeline

Application Completeness

Fully completed applications with accurate, verified information move through the pipeline faster. Missing or inconsistent entries may trigger review holds while our team contacts you for clarification.

Seasonal Demand

Peak travel months — summer, year-end holidays, and spring break — generate higher application volumes. During these periods, even standard processing may approach the upper end of the estimated window.

Security Screening

A small percentage of applications undergo additional security evaluation by federal authorities. This supplementary review operates independently of our processing tiers and can extend timelines beyond standard estimates.

System Maintenance

The official authorization system occasionally undergoes scheduled maintenance or experiences high-traffic conditions. While rare, these events can temporarily affect processing speed for all tiers.

Recommendations for Optimal Processing

  • Submit your application a minimum of 72 hours before your scheduled departure
  • Verify that every entry matches your passport document exactly — character for character
  • Assemble all required documents and information before opening the application form
  • Provide a primary email address that you actively monitor for notifications
  • If your timeline permits flexibility, avoid submission during recognized peak travel periods