Applying for ESTA: the 5-step plan
Updated 23 July 2026.
ESTA is mandatory for Dutch passport holders flying to the USA. Apply 3+ days before departure. Costs $21 and is valid 2 years.
What is ESTA?
Electronic System for Travel Authorization. Without it you're not allowed to board a USA flight. Required for stays under 90 days for tourism or business.
Step 1: Find the official site
Only via esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Many fake sites charge €60-€80 - the real fee is $21. Watch out for sponsored Google ads.
Step 2: Have your passport ready
You need: passport number, expiration date, place of issue. The passport must be valid at least 6 months after entry into the USA.
Step 3: Fill in the form (20 minutes)
Personal data, contact in USA (hotel address is fine), employer information, eligibility questions (criminal record, drug use). Be 100% truthful - false statements = lifetime ban.
Step 4: Pay with credit card
$21 via credit card. PayPal doesn't work. Get an answer in 72 hours (usually within minutes).
Step 5: Print the confirmation
Save the PDF and print a copy. Airlines check ESTA at check-in. Border control checks it again.
What if ESTA is denied?
1-3% denial rate. Reasons: visited Iran/Iraq/Syria/Sudan after 2011, criminal record. Apply for a B1/B2 visa at the US Consulate in Amsterdam instead (€185, takes 2-4 weeks).
Validity period
2 years OR until your passport expires (whichever comes first). Good for multiple USA trips during that period.
How long is an ESTA valid?
An ESTA is valid for two years after approval, or until your passport expires if that is sooner. You can make multiple trips to the USA with it. Each trip allows a maximum stay of 90 days. You do not need to apply for a new ESTA for each trip, but you must reapply if your passport expires or if you have visited certain countries since your ESTA was approved (Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Sudan or Syria).
Important: travellers who have visited Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Sudan, Syria or Yemen (even in transit or with dual nationality) are not eligible for ESTA and must apply for a B-2 tourist visa at the US embassy.
ESTA vs tourist visa: what is the difference?
The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is an automated pre-travel authorisation for citizens of Visa Waiver Programme countries. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry to the USA - the final decision is made by Customs and Border Protection at the US port of entry. A tourist visa (B-2) is required for stays longer than 90 days, for travellers from non-VWP countries, or for those who do not qualify for ESTA. The visa process takes 6-12 weeks and costs approximately $160 USD.
Common ESTA application mistakes
The most common mistakes: applying through a third-party website that charges extra fees (only apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov), entering your passport number incorrectly, not disclosing criminal convictions (even minor ones), and forgetting to include your employer information. If your ESTA is denied, you must apply for a B-2 visa - you cannot reapply for ESTA for the same trip. The application fee of $21 is non-refundable.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the ESTA application take?
Most ESTA applications are approved within minutes to 72 hours. Submit your application as soon as you have booked your flight, but at least 72 hours before departure. In rare cases it may take longer or additional information may be requested.
Is the ESTA website free?
The official ESTA website (esta.cbp.dhs.gov) charges $21 for the application. Third-party websites offering ESTA assistance charge extra fees (sometimes 50-100 euros) but offer no extra benefits. Always use only the official government website.
What if my ESTA is denied?
If your ESTA is denied, you cannot reapply for ESTA for the same trip. You must then apply for a B-2 tourist visa at the US embassy. This process takes 6-12 weeks and costs approximately $185 USD.