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IN BRIEF
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It is with a wry smile that we learn today that the price of the ESTA, this electronic key to enter the United States, is not suddenly going to skyrocket to $1,000. Although this news has taken on the appearance of an April Fool’s joke, it is essential to keep in mind that even if the current amount for the ESTA is $21, visa fees can quickly escalate depending on the destination. So relax, because the necessary formalities to travel to the USA remain largely accessible to many travelers.
A far-fetched rumor has recently circulated, claiming that the cost of the ESTA would now be $1,000 USD. But rest assured, this announcement seems closer to an April Fool’s joke than reality. In this article, we will explore the true costs of the ESTA, what it entails, and the truth behind this astonishing claim.
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To begin with, it is crucial to note that the ESTA, which stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is an essential document for individuals traveling to the United States without a visa. It allows for up to 90 days of stay in the country, and while its cost is anything but exorbitant, such rumors can quickly sow doubt.
What is the actual price of the ESTA? #
The current fee to obtain an ESTA is $21 USD. This amount grants you access to this authorization for a period of two years, as long as your passport remains valid. It is always advisable to apply through the official site, and not via an intermediary who might charge you additional fees. To discover other travel-related costs, feel free to check out this article on the cost of a trip to Japan.
Requirements necessary to enter the United States #
It is important to know that to travel to the United States, certain conditions must be met. French citizens, for example, must have a valid passport at least six months beyond their date of entry, a return or onward ticket, and of course, an approved ESTA application. This formality is essential for a stress-free trip, as discussed in this article about the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Fluctuations in visa costs around the world #
While the cost of the ESTA is relatively affordable, it is interesting to note that this is not the case in other countries. For example, visas can reach up to $700 USD, as is the case for Turkmenistan. Other nations, such as Nigeria or Russia, also have costs that vary significantly, but none reach the figure of a thousand dollars. To learn more about sightseeing costs, you can check out Visiting the London Eye.
Timelines and precautions for the ESTA #
To obtain the ESTA, it is recommended to submit your application at least 72 hours before your flight. While the response can be very quick, it is always wise to apply early to avoid any unpleasant surprises. It is also important to pay attention to the new section regarding gender at birth, recently added to the application form. For those interested in air travel, check this out on Ryanair and EasyJet cabin luggage.
Traveling to the USA: an overview of obligations #
Finally, it should be noted that even if you are compliant with the formalities, entry into American soil will depend on the discretion of the immigration officer. This also applies to changes made in 2022, where the ESTA became mandatory for all land arrivals from Canada or Mexico. For those who love adventure, a visit to the ancient forest with its Arthurian legends can be a magical experience; in fact, you can find out about this interesting subject here: Ancient forests and Arthurian legends.
