How many times can you apply for an ESTA?

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ESTA authorizations are valid for multiple trips within two years of approval or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner. You dont need to reapply during this period.
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Do You Need to Keep Applying for ESTA? Understanding the Two-Year Validity

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) can seem a little confusing at first. Many travelers wonder how often they need to apply, assuming it’s required for every trip to the United States. The good news is, a single ESTA approval grants you multiple entries, eliminating the need for constant reapplication.

The key to understanding ESTA validity lies in its two-year lifespan, or the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first. Once your ESTA is approved, you’re covered for multiple trips to the US within that two-year window, provided your passport remains valid. This means you can visit the US numerous times for tourism or business purposes without having to reapply for ESTA each time.

Let’s illustrate this with an example: imagine your ESTA is approved on January 1, 2024, and your passport expires on June 1, 2025. Your ESTA will be valid until June 1, 2025, even though the two-year mark from the approval date would be January 1, 2026.

This multi-trip authorization simplifies travel planning significantly. You can book flights and make travel arrangements knowing your ESTA covers you for multiple entries within its validity period. This eliminates the time, effort, and potential stress of repeated applications.

However, it’s crucial to remember a few key points:

  • Passport Renewal: If your passport expires before the two-year ESTA validity period ends, your ESTA is automatically invalidated. You’ll need to apply for a new ESTA after obtaining your new passport.
  • Change in Circumstances: If any of the information you provided on your original ESTA application changes – such as your name, citizenship, or answers to eligibility questions – you must apply for a new ESTA. Simply updating your details on the existing application is not sufficient.
  • Trip Purpose: ESTA only covers travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for tourism or business purposes. If you intend to study, work, or reside permanently in the US, you’ll require a different visa.

In conclusion, the ESTA’s two-year validity or passport expiry, whichever is sooner, provides travelers with a convenient multi-trip authorization. Understanding these parameters will help you plan your US travels efficiently and avoid unnecessary reapplications. Remember to check your ESTA status and passport expiry date before each trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.