Can you apply for an ESTA twice?

Can You Apply for an ESTA Twice? Understanding ESTA Validity

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a crucial component of US immigration policy, streamlining travel processes for eligible citizens of certain countries. A common question arises regarding ESTA applications: Can you apply for an ESTA twice? The answer, in short, is not directly, but the authorization itself is designed for multiple entries.

ESTA authorizations, unlike visas, are not applications you re-submit. Instead, they operate on a grant-of-permission principle. Once approved, an ESTA remains valid for two years, or until the passport it’s associated with expires, whichever comes first.

This validity period means a single ESTA application allows for multiple trips to the United States within that two-year timeframe. You don’t need to re-apply for each visit. Crucially, you only need one valid ESTA to travel to the USA multiple times during the two-year period, as long as the passport you used for the ESTA application remains valid.

It’s important to note that if your ESTA is revoked, future travel will be impossible without a new application. However, under normal circumstances, the authorization stands for the duration specified, offering flexibility for travellers.

In summary, you don’t “apply for an ESTA twice” in a sequential manner. Instead, one ESTA authorization covers multiple trips, subject to the two-year limit or passport expiry. This single authorization is a crucial aspect of streamlining the travel process for eligible travellers.