The Foreign Office warns UK travelers about common ESTA application errors that could delay their travel plans to the USA
London: The Foreign Office has put out a warning for UK travelers about the common mistakes people make when applying for an ESTA. If you’re planning a trip to the USA, you need to get this Electronic System for Travel Authorization sorted out before you fly.
Experts from Journeyscape have highlighted the biggest blunders to avoid when filling out your ESTA application. They also shared some handy tips to make the process smoother.
One of the top reasons applications get rejected is incorrect passport info. Even a tiny mistake in your passport number can lead to a denied application. So, double-check that!
Another common issue is not mentioning your travel history. Some folks think leaving out visits to places like Cuba or Iran will help, but it can actually backfire. Always be upfront about your past travels.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on your application status after you submit it. If it’s still pending, check in to make sure everything’s okay before your travel date.
Also, applying too close to your departure can be risky. While some approvals are quick, waiting until the last minute can lead to delays. You don’t want to miss your flight because of a technical hiccup!
Since January 2021, if you’ve been to Cuba, you might not be eligible for an ESTA. This means you could need to go through the full visa process instead, which can take a while.
To avoid any last-minute surprises, it’s best to apply for your ESTA at least a week before your trip. But don’t apply too early, either—doing so more than 90 days in advance can lead to needing a renewal sooner than you’d like.
Make sure all your details are spot on when you apply. This includes matching your passport info exactly and providing a valid email address for notifications.
Always use the official ESTA website to avoid extra fees from third-party sites. The application fee is $21, and you don’t want to pay more than that for no good reason.
While you don’t need to have your travel plans set in stone, it helps to have some info ready, like where you’ll be staying in the U.S.
Remember, an ESTA is valid for up to two years, allowing multiple entries for stays of up to 90 days. So, savvy travelers can plan ahead to avoid busy periods that might slow down the approval process.
If your ESTA gets denied, don’t panic. You can reapply if it was a simple mistake, and there’s no waiting period. If it’s more complicated, like travel history issues, you’ll need to apply for a visa, which takes longer.
It’s also a good idea to reach out to U.S. Customs and Border Protection if you think your denial was a mistake. They can clarify why it happened, even if they can’t change the decision.
Kerry Manley from Journeyscape emphasizes that being proactive is key. Apply early, use the official site, and double-check your info to avoid common pitfalls. Staying updated on travel rules is also crucial, especially with recent changes regarding Cuba.
Lastly, remember that having an approved ESTA doesn’t guarantee entry into the U.S. That decision is ultimately up to the Customs officer when you arrive. So, be ready to answer questions about your trip!
