How far in advance of my trip should I request the ESTA to USA?

You can apply for the ESTA at least 5 days before your trip. However, it is recommended to apply at least 15 days in advance of your travel date. This ensures there is enough time to process the application and resolve any issues that may arise, such as last-minute flight or accommodation problems.

Reasons to apply in advance:

1. Approval process: Even though most ESTA applications are approved quickly, applying 15 days in advance allows you to deal with any eventuality that may arise during the review process. 
2. Travel precautions: By obtaining the ESTA  in advance, you can ensure that all required documents are in order and avoid any delays that could affect your trip.