US ESTA fees to double from September 30, 2025

Starting September 30, 2025, the fee for the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will nearly double, rising from $21 to $40. This increase, confirmed by U.S. authorities, will apply to all travelers who participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and plan to visit the United States.

Reasons for the increase

A proposal to significantly raise the ESTA fee was under review by U.S. lawmakers since May 2025.

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” passed in July during the 119th U.S. Congress, formally confirms the revision of ESTA fees. The increase will fund enhanced border security, tourism promotion, and contributions to the U.S. Treasury. The new fee breakdown includes: $17 for travel promotion (unchanged), $10 for operational costs (up from $4), and an additional $13 to the U.S. Treasury.

Upgrades to CBP systems required to collect the new fee are scheduled to go live on September 30, 2025. Any ESTA applications processed via the system after the September 30 update will be charged the new $40 fee.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection, esta.cbp.dhs.gov

How the new fee works

Any ESTA application paid before September 30 will remain at the $21 rate. Beginning on September 30, travelers must pay the new $40 fee (about €35). Previously approved ESTAs remain valid until their expiration date without any additional steps.

Other travel-related fees are also rising: the I-94 form for land arrivals increases to $30, and EVUS for certain Chinese travelers now costs $30.

Tourism professionals expect the new fee to affect cost-sensitive travelers and families. Travelers are advised to submit ESTA applications before the September 30 deadline to secure the current lower rate. An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first.