Do I need ESTA for connecting flight USA?

ESTA Requirement for Connecting Flights in the USA

When transiting through the United States, obtaining an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is mandatory, even for passengers who remain within the airport. Airside transit does not exempt travelers from this requirement.

According to US immigration regulations, all individuals transiting through the country, regardless of whether they exit the terminal, are required to possess an ESTA. This applies to connecting flights where passengers remain entirely within the secure area of the airport. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in denied boarding.

ESTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of certain countries to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a traditional visa. The ESTA application process is completed online through the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website and typically takes a few minutes to approve.

Once approved, an ESTA is valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. It is important to note that an ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States, as all travelers are subject to additional screening and inspection by CBP officers upon arrival.

To ensure a smooth transit experience through the USA, passengers are strongly advised to apply for an ESTA prior to their connecting flight. Failure to do so may result in significant delays, inconvenience, or even denial of boarding.