ESTA USA Application Questions: Everything You Need to Know

ESTA USA Application Questions: Everything You Need to Know


The ESTA USA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a vital step for travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who wish to visit the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes. While the ESTA application process is simple, it does involve a series of questions that you must answer correctly to get approved for entry into the U.S. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through some of the most common ESTA USA application questions, explain how to answer them, and provide tips to ensure your application goes smoothly.

What is ESTA USA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system designed for citizens of countries that are part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. It allows travelers to enter the U.S. for short-term visits (up to 90 days) without the need for a visa. Once approved, the ESTA authorization permits you to board a flight to the U.S., but it doesn’t guarantee entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will have the final decision regarding your admission into the U.S.

The ESTA application is straightforward, and the majority of travelers can complete it within minutes. However, understanding the ESTA USA application questions is essential to ensure a smooth and successful process.

Common ESTA USA Application Questions

1. What is Your Full Name?

When filling out the ESTA USA application, the first piece of information required is your full name. This includes your first name, middle name (if applicable), and last name, just as they appear on your passport.

  • Tip: Make sure that the name you provide matches exactly the name on your passport. Any discrepancies could result in your ESTA being denied.

2. What is Your Date of Birth?

The next question asks for your date of birth, which must also match the information on your passport. This is essential for verifying your identity.

  • Tip: Double-check your birthdate to ensure there are no mistakes, as an incorrect birthdate may result in a mismatch in U.S. immigration records.

3. What is Your Passport Information?

You will be required to enter details about your passport, including:

  • Passport number: Found on the identification page of your passport.
  • Country of issuance: The country that issued your passport.
  • Passport expiration date: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry into the U.S.
  • Tip: If your passport is close to expiring, consider renewing it before applying for ESTA.

4. What is Your Nationality?

In this section, you’ll need to provide your nationality (as listed on your passport). This helps the U.S. government verify whether you are from a country eligible for the Visa Waiver Program.

  • Tip: Only nationals from VWP countries are eligible for ESTA. If you are unsure whether your country is part of the program, you can check the list of participating nations on the official ESTA USA application site.

5. What is Your U.S. Address?

You will be asked to provide a U.S. address where you will be staying during your visit. This could be a hotel, a friend or family member’s address, or a business address.

  • Tip: If you do not have a U.S. address at the time of application, you can leave the field blank or enter “Unknown.” However, it’s best to have a confirmed address before applying to avoid any potential issues.

6. What is Your Emergency Contact Information?

The ESTA USA application will ask for the name and contact information of an emergency contact person in the U.S. This person can be anyone who can be contacted in case of an emergency while you’re in the U.S.

  • Tip: This section is required for all applicants. Make sure you provide accurate and up-to-date contact details for your emergency contact.

7. Do You Have a Criminal Record?

You will be asked whether you have a criminal record, particularly for crimes involving drugs, violence, or terrorism-related offenses. If you answer "Yes", additional questions will be asked to determine your eligibility for ESTA.

  • Tip: It’s essential to answer this question truthfully. If you have a criminal record, you may still be eligible for a U.S. visa but may not be eligible for ESTA. In such cases, you would need to apply for a traditional U.S. visa instead.

8. Have You Ever Been Denied Entry to the United States?

This question asks whether you have ever been denied entry into the United States or had a visa revoked. If you answer "Yes", you may be required to provide additional details or undergo a more extensive review.

  • Tip: If you’ve been denied entry to the U.S. before, it’s important to disclose this truthfully. You may still be able to obtain ESTA, but you could face additional questions or be required to apply for a visa.

9. Are You a Terrorist or Involved in Terrorist Activities?

This is a critical question for U.S. immigration authorities. You will be asked if you are involved in terrorism or pose a threat to the security of the United States.

  • Tip: If you are not involved in any terrorist activities, simply answer "No". The U.S. takes national security very seriously, and giving a truthful answer is essential.

10. Are You Currently Infected with a Communicable Disease?

The ESTA USA application asks whether you are infected with a contagious disease, such as tuberculosis, that could pose a risk to the public health of the U.S.

  • Tip: If you are not infected, answer "No". If you answer "Yes", additional questions may be asked, and you may be required to apply for a visa instead of using the Visa Waiver Program.

11. Travel Information

Finally, the ESTA application will ask about your travel plans, such as:

  • The flight details for your entry into the U.S.
  • The purpose of your trip (tourism, business, or transit).
  • Tip: Be prepared with your travel itinerary and ensure that your purpose of travel matches the information you provide in your application.

Tips for Answering ESTA USA Application Questions

  • Be honest: The most important advice when filling out the ESTA USA application is to be truthful in your answers. Providing false information can lead to the rejection of your application and possible future difficulties with U.S. immigration.
  • Double-check your details: Small errors, such as typos or incorrect passport numbers, can cause delays in the application process or even result in a denial. Make sure to review all of your information carefully before submitting the application.
  • Answer questions about criminal history and health truthfully: If you have a criminal history or medical conditions, disclosing them is crucial. Even if you answer "Yes" to certain questions, you may still be able to apply for a U.S. visa.
  • Apply early: Although most ESTA approvals happen within minutes, applying at least 72 hours before your flight is recommended. This ensures that there is enough time for any issues to be addressed.

Conclusion: Understanding ESTA USA Application Questions

The ESTA USA application questions are designed to collect essential information about your travel plans, identity, and eligibility to visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. By answering all the questions truthfully and accurately, you increase the chances of your application being approved.

Apply for ESTA USA Today

Ready to submit your ESTA USA application and visit the United States? Make sure you have all the necessary information at hand for a smooth process.

CLICK HERE to apply for your visa online now!


Report content on this page

Report Page

Please submit your DMCA takedown request to [email protected]