Travel to the United States is getting more expensive: here’s everything you need to know about the ESTA fee changes

Almost four million Brits visit the United States every year, crossing the pond for everything from shopping excursions in NYC to ranch stays in the country’s desertscapes. However, unlike many trips to our European neighbours, trips to the USA require a little more planning.

In order to enter the USA, travellers are required to obtain either a visa or an ESTA. The latter applies to most British and European jetsetters.

However, things are about to get a little pricier. A legislative package approved by the US Congress in July 2025 means that, as of Tuesday 30 September, the cost of an ESTA rises from $21 (about £16) to $40 (about £30).

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Here, we look into what exactly an ESTA is, the requirements for obtaining one, and the routes to apply.

What is an ESTA?

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, and is described by gov.uk as an ‘automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Travellers planning to holiday in, or transit through, the United States via air, sea, or land must have an approved ESTA to access ports of entry.

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What are the current ESTA Requirements?

For travellers entering the USA on a full ‘British citizen’ passport, gov.uk outlines the latest requirements.