How long is an ESTA valid for?

ESTA authorization is valid for two years from the date of approval. To renew or apply for your first U.S. travel authorization, simply fill out the ESTA form online.

ESTA authorization validity period

The ESTA is initially valid for 2 years. During this period, travelers can make several trips to the U.S. without having to submit a new application each time. However, it is crucial to check the validity of an ESTA before each trip to the United States.

Since summer 2023, the maximum validity period has been reduced to 1 year for two Visa Waiver Program member countries: Brunei and Hungary. More details are provided below.

Countries with a reduced ESTA validity period

Citizens of member countries of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program generally benefit from an ESTA validity period of up to 2 years. However, since 2023, there have been exceptions:

• As of July 6, 2023: Brunei citizens using a Brunei passport have the maximum validity of their ESTA reduced to 1 year.
• From August 1, 2023: Hungarian citizens using a Hungarian passport also have the maximum validity period of their ESTA reduced to 1 year.

Conditions for reducing ESTA validity period

The validity period of the ESTA may be reduced in the following cases:

• Passport expiry: ESTA authorization is linked to a valid passport for the USA. If your passport expires during these two years, your ESTA will no longer be valid and you will need to complete a new ESTA application.
• Change of personal information: If you change your name, gender or nationality within two years, a new ESTA application is required, as your personal information will no longer be up to date.
• Change in answers to questions: If the answers to ESTA personal questions (health, criminal record, behavior) change, a new ESTA application is also required.

Authorized length of stay with ESTA

Although an ESTA authorization is valid for two years, it does not allow you to stay in the United States for 24 consecutive months. Each stay is limited to a maximum of 90 days. For stays of over 90 days, an American tourist visa or Green Card will be required.

Expiration of an ESTA while in the United States

If your ESTA expires while you’re in the U.S., you can stay until the end of your planned stay without worry, as long as you don’t exceed the 90-day limit. You’ll have no problem leaving the U.S. as long as you respect this time limit.