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

Modified on Wed, 26 Jun at 6:38 PM

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


You can apply for the ESTA  at least 5 days before your trip. However, it is advisable to apply at least 15 days before the date of travel to ensure everything is in order and to avoid last-minute issues related to flights or accommodation.


Additional Details: 

  • Processing time: Although most ESTA applications are approved quickly, some may require more time to process. Applying for the ESTA 15 days in advance provides a margin of safety for any inconveniences.
  • Validity of the ESTA: Once approved, the ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple trips to Puerto Rico and other US territories as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days.

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