Do I need an ESTA for each trip to USA?

Do You Need a Separate ESTA for Each Trip to the USA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a mandatory travel authorization required for citizens of certain countries who wish to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit. ESTA approvals are generally valid for two years, allowing for multiple trips to the U.S. during that period.

Validity of ESTA

Once approved, an ESTA is valid for two years from the date of approval or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first. For example, if your ESTA is approved on January 1, 2023, it will remain valid until January 1, 2025, or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first.

Passport Expiration and ESTA Validity

It’s important to note that your ESTA is linked to your passport number. If your passport expires before the two-year validity period of the ESTA, your ESTA will also expire. In this case, you will need to apply for a new ESTA with your new passport before traveling again to the U.S.

Multiple Trips within the Validity Period

As long as your ESTA remains valid, you can make multiple trips to the U.S. without having to apply for a separate ESTA for each visit. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your passport is also valid for your intended travel dates.

Exceptions to ESTA Validity

There are a few exceptions to the two-year validity period of ESTA:

• If you change your name or gender.
• If you obtain a new passport number.
• If you change your country of citizenship.

In any of these cases, you will need to apply for a new ESTA.

Conclusion

ESTA approvals typically cover multiple trips to the U.S. within a two-year validity period. However, if your passport expires before the ESTA’s expiration date, you will need to obtain a new ESTA. It’s essential to check the validity of both your ESTA and passport before each trip to ensure a smooth travel experience.