The good news is that the ESTA travel authorization allows multiple trips to the U.S. territory. The bad news is that it has a validity period. So it’s important to know how long your ESTA is valid, so you don’t end up with an invalid document just before your trip to the USA.
In this article, we’ll look at how long ESTA authorization is valid and what to do if it expires.
Esta Valide
ESTA authorization validity period
Summary :
The ESTA is valid for two years. However, its validity depends on the validity of the passport. So, if the passport used to apply for the ESTA – which must be an electronic or biometric passport (no problem for a French passport, then) – expires before the ESTA’s official 2-year period, the expiry date of the passport and ESTA authorization will be the same. An expired passport means that the ESTA has lapsed. A new ESTA application must be made using a new passport.
The ESTA validity period should not be confused with the authorized length of stay. The ESTA does not allow you to stay in the USA for 2 years, but to make as many visits as you like, provided they comply with the requirements of the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA was born out of the Visa Waiver Program, so it’s only logical that the same conditions should apply. To be in good standing with the U.S. authorities, your stay in the U.S. must be a transit, tourist or business trip of no more than 90 days. It’s important that you don’t stay longer than this, as you could get into trouble.
The final time factor to take into account is the delivery time. ESTA authorization is processed by electronic systems within a maximum of 72 hours. You can therefore apply for authorization up to 3 days before departure. However, it is advisable to apply earlier, in case your application is refused. In the best-case scenario, if your application is refused due to an error on the ESTA form, you can reapply. If, on the other hand, you are not eligible for ESTA, you will need to apply for a visa at the US embassy. This can take several weeks.
Renewing your ESTA once it has expired
Once your ESTA or passport is no longer valid, you will need to renew your authorization in order to travel to the United States.
To do this, you’ll need to follow the same procedure as for your first application. To complete the online form, go to the official U.S. government website with your valid passport. Provide your personal details (surname, first name, date of birth, address, employer, etc.), your passport details (date of issue and expiry, passport number), your address in the USA and an emergency contact, then answer the closed questions on your mental and physical health, drug use, criminal record, etc. Proceed to payment and your application will be processed.
You can also entrust the renewal of your ESTA to a private site. They will then take care of the process for you.
