Applying for an ESTA as a Couple: A Complete Guide

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If you and your partner are planning a trip to the United States and are both citizens of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, applying for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a crucial step. The ESTA allows you to travel to the U.S. without the need for a traditional visa, but every traveler, including each member of a couple, must submit an individual ESTA application. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain how to apply for an ESTA as a couple, walk you through the process, and provide helpful tips for a smooth experience.

What is an ESTA?

An ESTA is an electronic travel authorization used by citizens from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to enter the United States for short stays (typically 90 days or less) for tourism, business, or transit. The ESTA serves as an alternative to applying for a traditional visa for short visits.

The ESTA is valid for up to two years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this time, you can make multiple visits to the U.S. without needing to reapply, as long as each stay doesn’t exceed 90 days.

Do You Need to Apply for an ESTA as a Couple?

Yes, even if you and your partner are traveling together, each person must have their own ESTA. ESTA applications are tied to individual passports, and each family member or couple member needs to apply for their own travel authorization.

While it may seem convenient to apply for a single ESTA for both of you as a couple, the U.S. government requires separate applications to ensure that each individual meets the necessary eligibility requirements. This is especially important since each person’s criminal, health, and travel history must be reviewed separately.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

How to Apply for an ESTA as a Couple: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for an ESTA is a simple process, but if you’re applying as a couple, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure that both of you are approved.

Step 1: Prepare Your Information

Before you begin applying for the ESTA, ensure you both have all the necessary information. This includes:

  • Passport details: You both need valid passports from a VWP country. Ensure your passports are not expiring soon, as the ESTA is only valid as long as your passport is.
  • Personal details: You’ll need full names, dates of birth, and nationality for both you and your partner.
  • Travel details: Be prepared with your flight details and information about where you will stay in the U.S.
  • Health and legal questions: Each person will need to answer questions regarding their criminal history, health, and eligibility to travel to the U.S.

Step 2: Start the ESTA Application

To apply for an ESTA for both you and your partner, you’ll need to visit the official website of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

You can apply for your ESTA applications separately or apply for both of you at once by selecting the group application option.

  1. Complete individual forms: While you may be applying as a couple, each person must fill out their own ESTA application. This involves entering personal information, passport details, and answering eligibility questions.
  2. Answer eligibility questions: Both you and your partner will need to answer questions about your travel history, health, and criminal records. These questions help determine whether you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program.

Step 3: Submit the ESTA Applications

Once all the necessary information for both you and your partner has been entered, you will need to submit the applications. After you submit, you will be asked to pay the ESTA application fee.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

  • The ESTA fee is typically $21 USD per person. Payment can be made through credit card or PayPal.
  • If you’re applying for both you and your partner at once, you will need to ensure you pay for both applications before moving forward.

Step 4: Check Your ESTA Status

After submitting the ESTA applications, the system will process them. In most cases, you will receive your ESTA approval within a few minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours in some instances. You will be able to check the status of both your ESTA applications through the official website.

  • ESTA approval: Once approved, your ESTA will be electronically linked to your passport. You do not need to print anything out; however, it’s a good idea to save the approval email or print it for your records.
  • ESTA denial: If either you or your partner’s ESTA is denied, you will receive instructions on what to do next. In most cases, you will need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Special Considerations for Applying for an ESTA as a Couple

When applying for an ESTA as a couple, there are several things to consider to ensure the process is smooth for both of you:

  1. Accurate Information: Both you and your partner must provide accurate information. Even small errors can cause delays or denials in the application process.
  2. Children and Dependents: If you are traveling with children or dependents, remember that each person, regardless of age, must have their own ESTA. For children under 18, a parent or guardian must fill out the application on their behalf.
  3. Traveling Together but Different Passports: If you and your partner are traveling with different passports, each passport holder must apply for their own ESTA. You can still travel together, but both of you need to ensure you have individual ESTA approvals.
  4. Validity of ESTA: The ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires. If your passports expire before the two-year period, you will need to reapply for a new ESTA.

Why You Should Apply for an ESTA as a Couple

There are several benefits to applying for an ESTA as a couple:

  • Time-Saving: The ESTA application is quick and efficient, allowing you both to complete it in a short amount of time.
  • Multiple Visits: Once approved, your ESTA is valid for two years, allowing you to visit the U.S. multiple times without needing to reapply.
  • Convenience: With an ESTA, you can bypass the need for a traditional visa, saving both time and money.

By applying for the ESTA early, you ensure that both you and your partner are ready to travel without any last-minute issues at the airport or upon arrival in the U.S.

Conclusion: Apply for Your ESTA as a Couple Today

Applying for an ESTA as a couple is a straightforward and necessary step for traveling to the United States. Ensure you both have valid passports, provide the required information accurately, and submit your applications online. The approval process is fast, and once granted, it allows both you and your partner to travel to the U.S. with ease.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Ready to Apply for Your ESTA as a Couple?

Start the ESTA application process now for both you and your partner. Don’t wait until the last minute to ensure a hassle-free trip to the United States!

CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA today!

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