Fixing a mistake on your ESTA Application

Making an error on your ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application is more common than you might think. Despite being straightforward, it’s easy to enter incorrect details such as your birthdate, passport number, or passport expiration/issuance dates. If you’ve realized that you’ve made a mistake on your ESTA application, here’s how you can correct it. (For a quick overview, check out the video.)

How to Fix Errors on Your ESTA Application

Mistakes on Question 1

If you’ve made an error on Question 1 of your ESTA application, you can wait 24 hours and submit a new application. However, if the error occurs on Questions 2-9, you will need to contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You can either call their office at +1 (202) 325-8000 or reach out to the ESTA technical support team via their official contact page.

Errors in Other ESTA Fields

For mistakes in any of the fields listed below or the eligibility questions, you’ll need to submit a completely new application:

• First (Given) Name – Enter your first name exactly as shown on your passport.
• Last (Family) Name – Use the family name listed on your passport.
• Gender – This should match the gender stated on your passport.
• City of Birth – The city where you were born, as indicated on your passport.
• Country of Birth – Enter the country of birth as it appears on your passport.
• Country of Citizenship – Your country of citizenship must align with your passport details.
• Country of Residence – Provide the country where you currently reside.
• Country of Passport Issuance – This is the country that issued your passport.
• Birth Date – Ensure your birthdate matches your passport exactly.
• Passport Number – Your passport number, usually 7-12 alphanumeric characters.
• Passport Expiry Date – Double-check that your passport expiration date is accurate.
• Passport Issuance Date – Match this to the date your passport was issued.

What Can Be Changed After Submitting an ESTA?

Once your ESTA form is submitted, only a couple of fields can still be modified:

• Address While in the United States
• Email Address

If you need to update any other details, you will have to reapply for a new ESTA.

By following these steps, you can ensure your ESTA application is corrected and avoid complications during your travels.