An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is a visa waiver for people travelling to the US as tourists. This includes anyone just passing through the US on their way to another destination, or for visitors staying for up to 90 days. Whether you’re going to Florida, California, New York, or anywhere in between, if you have an Irish passport, you’ll need to have an ESTA to enter the country.
What are the price changes for the US ESTA?
From September 30th 2025, the price of a US ESTA is increasing from $21 to $40 (roughly €35 at the time of writing). So, if you’re planning a trip to the US anytime soon, we’d recommend applying for your ESTA as soon as possible to make the most of the cheaper price. Your ESTA application has to be submitted AND approved before September 30th, and this can take up to 72 hours, so you’ll want to do it sooner rather than later.
ESTAs are valid for 2 years (although they can be revoked after approval so always double check before travelling) so even if you’re travelling in 2026, you can apply for your ESTA now and pay the lower fee.
The $40 fee is the fee on the official US ESTA site. There are many sites out there offering ESTA applications that charge more than this, as you will be paying for someone else to process your application for you. The application process is fairly quick and easy, and you’ll want to make sure all the personal information provided is 100% correct, so we’d always recommend completing the official application yourself and not paying a company to do this for you.
What information do I need to provide in my ESTA application?
The ESTA application involves a simple background check in which you will provide your personal details, contact information, passport details, and information about where you will be staying during your time in the US. You will also be asked questions about previous travel and criminal records.
Will existing ESTAs still be valid after September 30th 2025?
If you already have an ESTA from a previous holiday within the past 2 years, it will still be valid after the price change. Just be aware that an ESTA can be revoked after it has been approved, so check yours is still okay before September 30th in case you need to submit a new application for future travel. You will also need to apply for a new ESTA if you have received a new passport since your last application.
Who is eligible for an ESTA?
There are 42 eligible countries on the US Visa Waiver program, including the UK and Ireland. You should apply for an ESTA if you:
- Are travelling for business or pleasure
- Are staying in the US for no more than 90 days
- Have a return or onward journey booked
This being said, there are many reasons why an ESTA application may be rejected. An ESTA also does not guarantee you entry into the US, just the right to travel there - you will still need to go through US Customs and Border Control where you may still be denied entry.
Eligibility and application processes for ESTAs may be subject to change without notice at any time, so we’d recommend you refer to all official US Homeland Security documentation and advice for your specific passport and travel requirements before submitting your application.
Summary:
- From September 30th 2025 the US ESTA application fee will be increasing from $21 to $40
- Make sure you apply for your ESTA as soon as possible so you have time to make alternative arrangements for unsuccessful applications
- If you already have a valid ESTA, it will still be valid after the price change
- If you have a UK or Irish passport and are visiting the US as a tourist for less than 90 days, you will need to apply for an ESTA (but check your specific requirements before applying)
- You can apply for an ESTA now if you’re travelling in the next two years
