Guidance

United States — ESTA guidance

If your nationality is in the Visa Waiver Program you may travel on an ESTA authorisation instead of a visa. We check your eligibility and prepare your submission.

Typical validity
Two years, or until the passport expires
Length of stay
Up to 90 days per entry
Processing (estimate)
Usually within 72 hours (estimate)

Document checklist

Requirements depend on your nationality. Tell us your nationality for an exact checklist — we confirm it in writing before any work starts.

  • Passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date, with two blank pages
  • Completed and signed application form
  • Recent passport photograph to the authority’s specification
  • Proof of accommodation for the whole stay
  • Return or onward travel itinerary
  • Proof of funds — recent bank statements
  • Travel medical insurance covering the period of travel
  • Details of your first night’s accommodation in the United States
  • A contact in the United States, if you have one

Common reasons applications are refused

  • Supporting documents that are incomplete, inconsistent or out of date
  • Insufficient evidence of funds for the length of the stay
  • Unclear purpose of travel, or weak ties to your country of residence
  • Previous overstays or a refusal that was not declared
  • Past travel to countries that make an applicant ineligible for the programme
  • A previous visa refusal, which removes ESTA eligibility

Service tiers

What's includedStandardPriorityPremium
Document review against the current checklistIncludedIncludedIncluded
Application form completionIncludedIncludedIncluded
Checklist tailored to your nationalityIncludedIncludedIncluded
File review turnaround2–3 business days1 business daySame business day
Appointment booking assistance—IncludedIncluded
Dedicated consultant——Included
Cover letter and itinerary drafting——Included
Interview preparation (where applicable)——Included
Stampwise service feeUSD 49USD 79USD 129
Government / visa centre feeUSD 21 (estimate)USD 21 (estimate)USD 21 (estimate)

Service fees are per traveller. Government and visa-centre fees are paid at cost and subject to change by the authority.

Questions about this visa

How long does this take?

The authority publishes Usually within 72 hours (estimate). That is an estimate, not a commitment, and it can change during busy seasons. We tell you the current picture when we review your file.

Is the checklist above complete for me?

It is the general list. Requirements vary by nationality and sometimes by place of residence, so we confirm your exact list in writing before any work starts.

What if my application is refused?

A refusal is not grounds for a refund of work already completed. We explain the stated reason, and where a fresh application makes sense we tell you what would need to change.