To travel to the United States without a visa, nationals of certain countries, including France, can take advantage of the ESTA program. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is an electronic travel authorization that allows you to stay in the United States for up to 90 days, whether for tourism, business or transit. However, while the application process may appear straightforward, it’s crucial to follow all the steps to avoid refusal. In 2025, requirements and procedures have changed slightly. This complete guide explains how to obtain an ESTA with complete peace of mind.
What is ESTA?
An electronic device to simplify travel
The ESTA was introduced as part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows citizens of eligible countries to travel to the United States without a traditional visa. Unlike a visa, the ESTA is entirely paperless, and can only be applied for online. It is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport, facilitating checks on arrival on American soil. Although it simplifies formalities, the ESTA is not a guarantee of entry. U.S. customs officers retain the right to refuse entry, even with a valid ESTA authorization.
Period of validity and conditions of use
Once granted, the ESTA is valid for two years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, the traveler may make several visits to the United States, each lasting a maximum of 90 consecutive days. However, it is forbidden to extend or modify the duration of the stay once in the country. Activities authorized with an ESTA are limited to tourist travel, business visits and transit to other countries. Any remunerated activity, such as work or study, requires a specific visa.
More and more electronic travel authorizations worldwide
The introduction of ESTA for travel to the USA has inspired many countries around the world. Most major countries now have e-visas that can be obtained online before embarking for the destination country. The best examples are :
- The need to obtain an ETA to travel to Canada or Australia.
- ETIAS authorization to travel in Europe to be launched soon
- Obtaining a UK ETA to travel in the UK
Steps to obtain an ESTA in 2025
Checking eligibility
Before launching the application, it is essential to ensure that the country of citizenship is one of the countries participating in the VWP program. In 2025, the list still includes European Union countries, as well as countries in Asia and Oceania. In addition, the applicant must have an electronic or biometric passport, as non-electronic passports are no longer accepted.
Fill in the online form
ESTA applications are made exclusively on the official U.S. government website. The form requires personal information (last name, first name, date of birth), passport information, as well as questions about health, criminal history and reasons for travel. In 2025, certain questions were revised to include additional information on social networks and contacts in the United States. This information is intended to reinforce security checks and prevent the risk of illegal immigration.
Pay processing fees
Once the form has been completed, the applicant must pay the ESTA processing fee. In 2025, this fee is 21 US dollars, payable by credit card. It is imperative to ensure that the transaction is carried out on the official U.S. government website, to avoid the frequent scams linked to unofficial sites promising intermediary services.
Processing time and possible responses
Waiting time before approval
ESTA is generally processed quickly. A reply is often given within 72 hours of application, but it is advisable to apply at least 72 hours before departure to avoid any delays. Once approved, the authorization is sent by e-mail, and can also be consulted online via the reference number provided at the time of application.
Possible responses to the request
There are three possible answers:
- Approved: the traveler is authorized to embark for the United States.
- Pending: treatment still in progress, please check again in 24 hours.
- Refused: entry without a visa is refused. In this case, the traveler must apply for a visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Reasons for refusal and possible solutions
Form errors
One of the most frequent causes of refusal is an error on the ESTA form. A simple typo in the passport number or a wrong answer to a security question can result in an immediate refusal. If the refusal is due to an error, it is possible to submit a new application, but the fees will have to be paid again.
Criminal history or previous extended stays
People who have already overstayed on a previous visit to the USA, or who have a criminal record, may also be refused an ESTA. In such cases, the only recourse is to apply for a B1/B2 visa from the embassy, providing detailed explanations and supporting documents.
The ESTA remains the quickest and easiest way for nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries to travel to the USA without a visa. In 2025, procedures remain broadly similar to previous years, but the tightening of security checks and the introduction of new questions on the form require extra vigilance when filling in the form. The application is made online, with a fixed fee of $21 and a response generally obtained within 72 hours. If the ESTA is refused, it is still possible to apply for a B1/B2 visa to try to obtain entry authorization. Compliance with the conditions of use, length of stay and security rules remains essential to avoid any inconvenience on arrival in the United States.