The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has made two significant changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in 2026: the application fee has doubled to $40.27, and applicants are now required to disclose their social media account handles as part of the screening process. Both changes apply to all citizens of the 42 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, including the UK, Australia, most EU nations, Japan, and South Korea.
The New ESTA Fee
The fee increased from $21 to $40.27 in mid-2026 — the first major increase since ESTA was introduced in 2009. The fee breakdown remains the same in structure: $4 is a processing fee (non-refundable regardless of outcome) and $36.27 is the travel authorisation fee charged only on approved applications.
Key points:
- ESTA authorisation remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
- A single ESTA covers multiple trips to the US within its validity period
- Applications must be submitted at least 72 hours before departure, though applying earlier is strongly recommended
Social Media Disclosure
Applicants must now list handles for any social media accounts they have used in the past five years on platforms specified in the ESTA form. Providing false information is a federal offence and may result in a permanent inadmissibility determination.
The disclosed accounts are cross-referenced with law enforcement and intelligence databases as part of the vetting process. There is no indication that ordinary travel-related or personal content triggers issues — the check is focused on individuals flagged in security databases.
Who Needs an ESTA
If you hold a passport from a Visa Waiver Program country, you need an ESTA for any trip to the United States — including connecting flights that involve clearing US customs. If your country is not on the VWP list, you need a visa regardless.
For travellers planning extended stays or who have a previous immigration violation, visa applications are processed through the US embassy or consulate in your home country.
Planning Your US Trip
The practical guides section covers ESTA applications, US entry requirements, and transport options in detail. If you are planning a road trip or visit to the country’s national parks, the national parks and road trips sections have destination-by-destination guides for the most popular routes and parks.
Apply for your ESTA at the official CBP website — esta.cbp.dhs.gov — and avoid third-party services that charge additional fees for the same application.