Der Preis für den amerikanischen Traum ist gestiegen: Die USA erhöhen die Kosten für ESTA

10.09.2025

The price of the American dream has risen: the US is increasing the cost of ESTA

The USA is making an important change for travelers: from September 30, 2025, the cost of processing an ESTA will nearly double from $21 to $40. This system is necessary for citizens of 42 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program to visit America without obtaining a visa.

The reason for the increase was an update to the fee structure. Now $17 will go to promoting tourism (unchanged), $10 will be the operational fee (previously $4), and a new $13 will go to the general US Treasury fund.

It is important to note that all applications paid for before the end of September 2025 will remain at the old price. Already approved ESTAs remain valid until the expiration date and do not require reprocessing.

The ESTA permit is valid for two years (or until the expiration date of the passport) and allows multiple trips to the US for up to 90 days. Typically, application approval is received within a few minutes, but in rare cases, the process can take up to 72 hours.

To apply for an ESTA, a valid biometric passport, a photograph, and a bank card or PayPal for online payment are required.

Thus, future travels to the USA under the visa-free program will become slightly more expensive, and tourists should take this change into account when planning their trips.