It has been known since July that the U.S. plans to significantly raise the cost of the ESTA travel authorisation. Now, further details have been released. The fee is set to rise at the end of September from the current US$21 (~€18) to US$40 (~€34). The key factor is the date the application is submitted.
The ESTA travel authorisation replaces a visa that would otherwise be required for trips to the U.S. Once approved, it is valid for two years and allows multiple visits of up to 90 days each. Anyone planning a U.S. trip soon is advised to apply for ESTA well in advance.
The impact is even greater for travellers entering the U.S. by land from Mexico or Canada. With a European passport, in addition to ESTA or a visa, an I-94 form is required. This fee will increase steeply from the current US$6 (~€5) to US$30 (~€26).
ESTA Fee Rises From $21 To $40
The fee changes take effect on September 30, 2025. The price for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) will increase from $21 to US$40 (~€34).
According to the CBP website, the total fee consists of:
- $13 Treasury General Fund Fee (new)
- $10 Operational Fee (previously $4)
- $17 Travel Promotion Fee (unchanged)
Existing approvals remain valid unless conditions change, e.g., due to a trip to Cuba or obtaining a new passport.
This is the second increase in just a few years. The last hike came in May 2022, when the fee rose from $14 to $21.
Land Entry Costs Increase Fivefold
While most U.S. travellers are familiar with ESTA, fewer know about the I-94 form required for land entry.
Those arriving in the U.S. by plane or ship automatically receive this form at no extra charge. But entering by land is different: the fee applies, for example, if you fly to Vancouver and then cross into the U.S. by car, bus, or train. These costs are in addition to the required ESTA.
According to the Federal Register, the fee will rise at the end of September from US$6 (~€5) to US$30 (~€26). It can be paid online in advance or at the border upon entry.
The land-entry fee does not apply if you already hold a valid I-94, for example, from arriving by plane within the past 90 days. Your current status can be checked online.
Translated by Ditmar
Cover Picture: Ditmar Lange