Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
yesterday

U.S. ESTA Fee to Rise to $40 on Sept. 30

The increase stems from July's One Big Beautiful Bill Act bundling several travel-related fees.

Image
Image

Overview

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the ESTA charge will increase from $21 to $40 effective September 30, 2025.
  • The non-approval processing fee for denied applications will rise from $4 to $10 on the same date.
  • Travelers can apply before September 30 to lock in the lower price, and approved authorizations remain valid for two years or until the passport expires.
  • Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries, including Germany, need ESTA for tourism or business stays up to 90 days, and transit passengers also require approval.
  • CBP urges applicants to use the official website or ESTA app, file at least 72 hours before departure, and note that every traveler, even infants, needs their own authorization.