British holidaymakers flying to the United States (US) face being hit with a ‘double fee’ to enter the country following a rule change.
The US Congress has approved a new bill that will see the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) application fee rise from $21 to $40 – almost double the current rate. A date for the price increase has yet to be confirmed but it is expected to take effect before 2026, with the approved bill to become law once it has been signed by President Donald Trump. As such, the sharp fee hike could catch UK travellers off guard so travel experts are urging holidaymakers to plan their budget and apply for an ESTA early.
An ESTA remains valid for two years from the date it is approved, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. So once the ESTA has been approved you can visit the US multiple times within the validity period without having to pay to renew it each time, providing you are travelling under the Visa Waiver Program, which is for stays of 90 days or less.
According to North America travel specialists Journeyscape, it is best to apply for an ESTA at least a week before your trip as it can take up to 72 hours for approval, so this gives you plenty of time to get it sorted.
But travellers are advised not to apply more than 90 days before their travel date as applying too early could mean having to renew the ESTA sooner than necessary if you are a frequent visitor to the US.
Travellers should also only use the official ESTA website to apply otherwise you can be stung by additional fees from third-party services.
Currently, the fee to apply is $21 but this is due to increase to $40 – nearly double the cost – and many third-party sites charge even more, often without offering any added value.
Kerry Manley, Head of Marketing at Journeyscape, said: “Navigating the ESTA process can indeed be smooth and hassle-free if you take a proactive approach. The key is to apply early, ideally at least a week before your departure, to account for any unexpected delays.
“Using the official ESTA website is crucial to avoid unnecessary fees or scams. Double-checking your details – such as passport information and travel itinerary – can prevent common mistakes that lead to denials.
“Additionally, staying informed about recent rule changes is essential, especially for travellers who may be affected by the latest restrictions, such as those related to travel history in Cuba.
“Even with a valid ESTA, remember that entry to the US is ultimately determined at the border by Customs and Border Protection. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel purpose and itinerary. Following these steps will help ensure a seamless travel experience, minimising stress and maximising your trip’s success.”