ESTA
Government & Politics abbreviation · Public Program
| Stands for | Electronic System for Travel Authorization |
|---|---|
| Categories | Government & Politics |
ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, a public program abbreviation.
Online system run by CBP that travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries must use to get approval before flying or sailing to the United States for tourism or business. An approved ESTA is generally valid for two years or until the passport expires.
Example: Remember to apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight to New York.
Usage notes
ESTA became mandatory in January 2009. It is not a visa, and approval does not guarantee entry, which is decided by a CBP officer on arrival. Applications should be made through the official government site, since many lookalike websites charge extra fees.
Related abbreviations
More public program abbreviations
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- EAD – Employment Authorization Document
- EB-5 – EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
- EBT – Electronic Benefit Transfer
- EIDL – Economic Injury Disaster Loan
- EITC – Earned Income Tax Credit
- FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid
- FMR – Fair Market Rent
- FPL – Federal poverty level
- FRA – Full retirement age
- FWS – Federal Work-Study
- H-1B – H-1B specialty occupation visa