Can You Apply for an ESTA as a Family? A Complete Guide

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If you and your family are planning a trip to the United States, applying for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an essential step in the process. The ESTA allows travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to enter the U.S. without needing a traditional visa, but there are certain steps to follow, especially if you’re applying as a family. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through how to apply for an ESTA as a family, provide useful tips, and explain the process to ensure everything goes smoothly for your family trip.

What is an ESTA?

An ESTA is an online travel authorization that allows citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without a visa. This travel authorization is valid for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing for multiple visits during that time.

Can You Apply for an ESTA as a Family?

Yes, you can apply for an ESTA as a family. However, it’s important to note that each family member must submit an individual ESTA application. While the process for applying is the same for everyone, each person needs their own approval to travel to the United States.

The ESTA application is tied to each individual’s passport, so even if you’re traveling as a family, the ESTA for each person must be processed separately. There is an option to apply for multiple family members at once through the group application process, which can save time and make managing the process easier.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Required Information

Before starting the ESTA application for your family, it’s important to gather all necessary information for each family member:

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  • Passport details: Each family member must have a valid passport from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country. Make sure passports are valid for at least six months after your planned arrival in the U.S.
  • Personal details: Full names, dates of birth, and nationality for each family member applying.
  • Travel information: Your flight details and where you will be staying in the United States.
  • Health and criminal history: You’ll need to answer questions about your health and any criminal history. This applies to each family member, even children.

Step 2: Complete the ESTA Applications for Each Family Member

To begin the application process, visit the official ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. While each family member needs to submit an individual application, you can complete applications for everyone at once by selecting the group application option.

  1. Fill out individual forms: Each family member needs to provide their personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
  2. Answer eligibility questions: Every family member must answer a set of questions regarding criminal history, health, and eligibility for travel to the U.S.

While the questions will be the same for everyone, each individual’s information must be entered separately.

Step 3: Submit the ESTA Applications

Once all the necessary information for your family members is entered, you can submit the ESTA applications. The system will prompt you to pay for the application fees.

  • The cost for each ESTA application is generally $21 USD.
  • Payments can be made using a credit card or PayPal. If applying for multiple family members, you’ll make a single payment for all applications at once.

Step 4: Check the Status of Your ESTA Applications

After submitting the applications, you will receive a confirmation email. In most cases, you will receive ESTA approval within minutes, although it may take up to 72 hours in some cases. You can check the status of your family’s ESTA applications on the official website.

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  • ESTA approval: Once approved, each family member will receive their own ESTA approval, which is electronically linked to their passport.
  • ESTA denial: If any family member’s application is denied, you will need to follow the instructions provided. In most cases, the affected individual will need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa.

Special Considerations When Applying for an ESTA as a Family

When applying for an ESTA as a family, there are several things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth process for everyone:

  1. Accuracy is Key: Make sure the information provided for each family member is accurate. Any discrepancies or mistakes could result in delays or rejections.
  2. Children and Infants: Every traveler, regardless of age, must have their own ESTA approval. If you’re traveling with children or infants, you will need to apply for an ESTA for them as well, even if they are very young. The process for minors is the same, and parents or guardians must complete the application on their behalf.
  3. Different Passports: If family members are traveling on different passports, they will need to apply for their own ESTA. This applies even if the family members are traveling together.
  4. Multiple Applications: While it may feel like an extra step, keep in mind that each family member needs their own ESTA due to U.S. immigration rules. While you can submit applications for multiple family members at once, each person’s application will be reviewed individually.
  5. Health and Legal Questions: Each person must answer questions about their criminal history, health, and previous travels to the U.S. Be aware that past violations of U.S. immigration law or certain criminal convictions could affect your family’s ability to obtain an ESTA.

Why Apply for an ESTA as a Family?

There are many reasons why applying for an ESTA as a family is the best option when planning a trip to the United States:

  • Convenience: The application process is quick and simple. Applying online for an ESTA takes just a few minutes for each family member.
  • Time-Saving: Once you’ve received ESTA approval, it’s valid for up to two years. This means you can visit the U.S. multiple times without having to reapply for an ESTA each time.
  • Cost-Effective: The ESTA process is more affordable than applying for individual visas for every family member.
  • Multiple Visits: The ESTA is perfect for frequent visitors. Once approved, you and your family can use your ESTA to travel to the U.S. multiple times without needing to apply for a new visa each time.

Conclusion: Apply for Your ESTA as a Family Today

Applying for an ESTA as a family is a simple and efficient way to ensure that you and your loved ones are ready for your upcoming trip to the United States. Each family member must apply for an individual ESTA, but you can submit all applications at once for convenience. By applying early, you’ll have plenty of time to ensure that everything is in order before you depart.

Ready to Apply for Your Family’s ESTA?

Start the process today to ensure that your family is all set for your trip to the U.S. Don't wait until the last minute—secure your travel authorization now!

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CLICK HERE to apply for your ESTA today!

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