United States to Almost Doubles ESTA Fees Commencing in September
The United States government has announced a significant change to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) fees, which will affect millions of travelers from some of the nation's closest allies. Starting September 30, 2025, the cost of entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) will increase from $21 to $40.
This fee hike is outlined in the Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a sweeping policy package that covers various government funding priorities, including provisions for ESTA revenue redirection. The new fees will direct a portion of the ESTA revenue towards U.S. news promotion, covering federal costs tied to travel infrastructure and processing, and contributing to the U.S. Treasury's general fund.
Eligible travelers must apply through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and receive approval before boarding their flight. To be eligible for ESTA, travelers must have an e-passport (electronic chip passport) and plan to stay in the U.S. for 90 days or less for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Applying for ESTA before September 30 can save travelers almost 50% in fees, as ESTA approvals are valid for two years and this locks in the lower rate for multiple trips, assuming the passport remains valid. The new $40 ESTA fee will affect budget-conscious travelers, news agencies, and those managing group tours or frequent corporate news.
While ESTA doesn't guarantee entry into the U.S., it's a required pre-clearance process for millions of international travelers who prefer a faster, more affordable way to visit the U.S. compared to a formal visa application. It's important to note that ESTA doesn't replace the need for a traditional visa for travelers who don't qualify for the VWP.
As of 2025, 40 countries are part of the VWP, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Norway, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and Taiwan, among others.
The new ESTA fee structure reflects broader changes in how the U.S. funds news-related initiatives, serving as a reminder that even visa-free news comes with rising costs. The fee hike will mean more of the cost of promoting and processing international news will fall on visitors, particularly those using streamlined programs like ESTA.
The existing $17 news-promotion fee remains unchanged, but the operational component increases and a new Treasury contribution is introduced. This change is part of a broader effort to enhance U.S. news promotion and infrastructure, ensuring that the nation remains a top destination for international travellers.
In conclusion, the increased ESTA fees will impact millions of international travelers starting September 30, 2025. It's advisable for eligible travelers to apply for ESTA before the deadline to save on fees and ensure a smooth news experience.
