print out slip of the system In December 2018, CBP announced that instant ESTA approvals would no longer be available and reiterated that it "strongly encouraged" travelers to submit an online authorization request at least three days (72 hours) before traveling to the United States. However, CBP's website still says that "In most cases, a response is received within seconds of submitting an application." However, some immigration consultants report that decisions on ESTA applications can occasionally take longer than 72 hours: for example, if the applicant has had any previous U.S. visa refusals (even if declared on the application). Each travel authorization under ESTA can be valid for up to two years, for multiple trips during that period. However, travelers must obtain a new ESTA authorization if they are issued a new passport, or change their name, gender or country of nationality, or if any answer to their ESTA application eligibility questions changes. • Has ever been arrested or convicted for a crime that resulted in serious damage to property, or serious harm to another person or government authority • Has ever violated any law related to possessing, using, or distributing illegal drugs • Plans to engage in or has ever engaged in terrorist activities, espionage, sabotage, or genocide • Has committed fraud or misrepresented oneself or others to obtain, or assist others to obtain, a visa or entry into the United States • Intends to seek employment in the United States or was previously employed in the United States without prior permission from the U.S. government • Has been denied a U.S. visa, or been refused admission to the United States at a U.S. port of entry (This includes any past visa denials under INA 221(g), whereby a visa applicant needed to provide more information or a case needed further
processing, even if the visa was later approved). • Has previously stayed in the United States longer than the admission period • Has traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, or Cuba on or after January 12, 2021
Optional information The applicant may optionally provide the following information: • Provider/Platform - Social media identifier Information found in
social media may be used for applicant vetting and to identify potential threats. If an applicant does not answer the social media question or simply does not hold a social media account, the ESTA application can still be submitted without a negative interpretation or inference. Third-party websites try to make themselves look legitimate by using official-sounding web addresses and posting logos that resemble the U.S. government emblem. They may or may not contain a small disclaimer at the bottom of the page that says they are not associated with the U.S. government. Even if one of the third-party websites is used, passengers themselves still have to complete the same form. Concerns have been raised that third-party sites could be used for
identity theft,
credit card fraud, or the distribution of
malware. == See also ==