|
IN BRIEF
|
Did you think applying for an Esta for the United States was just a simple administrative formality? Well, a little grain of sand has slipped into the machine! From now on, travelers must comply with a new procedure, complete with a photo fit for a secret agent on a mission: face straight, neutral expression, clear background… not to mention the search for a photo already used for your passport! Yes, crossing the Atlantic now requires a bit more preparation, but what would one not do to taste the American adventure?
Considering a trip to the United States always means a bit of adventure… but also its share of administrative tasks, starting with the famous ESTA application for travelers from many countries, including France. If you thought you understood everything about this travel authorization, fasten your seatbelts: new changes are coming to disrupt the procedure, including the unprecedented requirement to provide a specific photo or selfie during the application. In this article, we will explore in detail this new formality, its constraints, tips, and even some surprises about upcoming prices. Follow the guide!
A new procedure to obtain your Esta for the United States
The ESTA: the revised electronic key
For several years now, the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) has become the almost mandatory pass to set foot on American soil without a traditional visa, for around forty nationalities including France. But to complicate the suspense of your upcoming vacation across the Atlantic a bit, a brand new requirement has been officially introduced into the process. From now on, it is impossible to escape the provision of a digital ID photo or selfie, which must be attached to your digital file, whether you use the mobile app or the dedicated website. Gone are the days of simply entering your data: now, your face (without a smile or glasses, of course) will travel digitally before you.
What photo for the ESTA? The quest for the regulatory selfie
Here, the devil is in the details! To succeed in your application, it’s not enough to pick the last photo taken on vacation or your exceptional pose on Siesta Key Beach in Florida. You must meet several conditions: the photo must be of good quality, taken straight on, no smile, no accessories (glasses prohibited!), and on a light, plain background. Better yet: using the same photo as that used for your passport is not allowed, under penalty of seeing the procedure… simply canceled.
Consequences if you don’t get it right
A poorly framed selfie or a background behind you reminiscent of your last dinner at Masala Zone in London? And boom, the axe falls! Refusal, cancellation, or even the need to start all over: it’s better to prepare your shot with care. For globe-trotters who juggle a series of tasks (like booking hotels on this travel guide), it’s thus a necessary step, a bit irritating but better anticipated… with a camera on hand and a clear background.
Price alert: heading towards an increase?
As if that weren’t enough, the American Congress is seriously considering raising the cost of the ESTA. Forget the current $21: it is rumored that the price could soar to $40, in an effort to fill federal coffers a bit before the next major sporting event, shared with Mexico and Canada. For those who might be in a hurry, a “fast track” option at $1,000 may be offered… A budget to prepare for those who wish to avoid waiting months for their embassy interview!
Quick practical reminders for savvy travelers
Let’s not forget the essentials: to fully enjoy your stay with Uncle Sam, it’s best to prepare your ESTA application well, keep an eye on price and requirement changes, and explore, between two formalities, all the modern practical resources (online travel booking at the forefront) to turn paperwork into just a step towards the American dream. For those aspiring to a road trip between Miami and New York, or who want to know all about the authentic life of American cities (like this amazing Spanish city), it’s best to keep your identity papers up to date and stay informed about all administrative news!
