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IN BRIEF
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Preparing for a trip to the United States now involves an additional step. Since mid-June 2025, the process for obtaining the electronic travel authorization, or ESTA, has been modified to include the requirement of adding a passport photo to your application. This change affects all French travelers exempt from a visa wishing to stay in the land of Uncle Sam. This article outlines these new requirements, the procedure to follow, and the validity of this essential document.
Travel to the United States: a new form required to obtain your travel authorization
For several years now, anyone wishing to stay less than 90 days in the United States, whether for tourism or business, must fill out an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application. This visa waiver program facilitates entry into U.S. territory for citizens of certain countries, including France, as long as they have a valid passport.
In June 2025, a significant change occurred: the mandatory addition of a passport photo in the application process. This requirement, previously limited to the mobile application, now also applies to applications made via a web browser. While this change does not unsettle individuals who have already used the app, it impacts all new applicants or those renewing their ESTA.
The new conditions for obtaining the ESTA
To validate the electronic travel authorization, each applicant must now provide an accurate portrait. This can either be a “standard” passport photo or a selfie. This photo must meet specific criteria: the image must show the face and shoulders, be in color, on a plain background, and free of glasses, hats, masks, or any filters. The photo used for the ESTA application must also differ from the one in the passport.
This requirement aims to enhance security and simplify identification when passing through U.S. border controls. Individuals who applied for their ESTA within the last two years are exempt from this update, with the validity of the document remaining two years from its issuance date.
Is this mandatory for all travelers?
All French citizens wishing to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program are subject to this change. This includes tourist stays, short business trips, layovers, and family visits. It is therefore imperative to prepare the required documents before organizing a trip.
For other destinations or types of stays, it is advisable to inquire about any similar procedures. For example, some destinations like Thailand also require a request for an electronic visa.
Price and timelines for obtaining the ESTA travel authorization
The cost of the ESTA has not changed with the implementation of this new measure. The application still costs 21 dollars. The speed of the procedure remains advantageous since obtaining the authorization can take just a few minutes for most applications, especially if all documents are compliant. However, to anticipate any unforeseen circumstances, it is better to initiate the process several days before departure.
Travelers attentive to cost variations or new administrative procedures can find updated information on the increase in travel costs or on the introduction of new measures for other destinations, such as the Channel Islands.
Recommendations for a successful application
It is advisable to prepare in advance all necessary documents to facilitate the ESTA application. The passport photo, in particular, must meet the established requirements, or it will be rejected. In case of doubt, clear examples are available on the website of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is also wise to regularly check the travel alerts in case of regulatory changes.
School travelers, organized groups, or individuals traveling in special contexts (such as certain study or humanitarian trips) should be particularly vigilant, as highlighted by some recent news articles related to international travel procedures.
