The official ESTA application fee is $21 USD. It includes:
- 💰 $4 Processing Fee – Charged to all applicants
- ✅ $17 Authorization Fee – Charged only if the application is approved
🔗 You must apply only through the official website:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
💡 Beware of Unofficial ESTA Websites #
❗ Extra Fees from Third-Party Services #
Some third-party sites charge $60–$100+ by adding unnecessary service fees. These sites often appear legitimate but are not affiliated with the U.S. government.
🔐 How to Protect Yourself #
- ✅ Always use the official ESTA site ending in .gov
- 🚫 Do not share passport or payment details on non-government sites
- 🧾 Save your payment confirmation for your records
✅ Summary: ESTA Fee Breakdown #
Fee Type | Amount | Description |
---|---|---|
Processing Fee | $4 | Required for all applicants |
Authorization Fee | $17 | Charged only if ESTA is approved |
Total | $21 | Maximum fee paid through official site |
📌 Reminder: ESTA is only available to citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries.