Can I Apply for ESTA for Someone Else? A Complete Travel Guide

When planning international travel to the United States, one of the most common questions that arises is: "Can I apply for ESTA for someone else?" Whether you’re a travel agent, a parent applying for your child, or helping a friend or spouse, understanding the rules and process of applying for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) on behalf of another person is essential.

This comprehensive guide explores whether you can apply for ESTA for someone else, the legal and procedural steps involved, related travel topics, and the importance of completing the application correctly. We’ll also explain when to consider other visa options and how to apply online with ease.

What Is ESTA?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s briefly recap what ESTA is. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is an automated system used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to pre-screen travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries before they board a plane or ship to the United States.

An approved ESTA allows travelers to enter the U.S. without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit. It is valid for two years or until the passport expires—whichever comes first.

Can I Apply for ESTA for Someone Else?

Yes, you can apply for ESTA for someone else. In fact, the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) system allows a third party to complete and submit an ESTA application on behalf of another traveler. This is particularly helpful for:

  • Parents applying for children

  • Travel agents applying for clients

  • Spouses or family members helping each other

  • Corporate travel managers organizing business trips

The system is designed to accommodate these situations, provided that the person applying on someone else's behalf has accurate personal, passport, and travel information.

Requirements When Applying for ESTA for Someone Else

When answering "Can I apply for ESTA for someone else?", it's important to understand that even though third-party applications are allowed, they must still meet all requirements. You will need the following:

  1. Full legal name of the traveler

  2. Valid passport details (must be from a Visa Waiver Program country)

  3. Birth date, contact info, and address

  4. Emergency contact information

  5. Employment or school details (if applicable)

  6. Travel plans (U.S. address if known, carrier information, etc.)

The person submitting the form must also certify that the information is correct and that the traveler agrees to the terms and conditions. Misrepresentation can result in denial of travel or future entry bans.

Legal Consent and Responsibility

When you apply for ESTA for someone else, you’re also legally certifying that:

  • The information provided is true and accurate.

  • You have obtained authorization from the traveler to submit their data.

  • The traveler consents to U.S. screening procedures and understands their rights.

Failure to meet these obligations can lead to ESTA denial, boarding issues, or more serious immigration consequences for the traveler.

Is There a Special ESTA Application for Minors?

Many people wonder, “Can I apply for ESTA for my child?” Yes—minors also require their own ESTA. Even infants or toddlers traveling under their parents’ supervision must have an individual ESTA authorization. A parent or guardian can fill out the ESTA on their behalf and answer questions appropriately.

Children traveling without an ESTA or valid visa will not be allowed to board a flight or cruise headed to the United States.

Related Topics: ESTA Group Applications

While you can apply for ESTA for someone else, ESTA group applications are another option, particularly for families or tour groups. This allows one person to submit multiple applications in a batch. However, each traveler still receives their own individual approval, and separate payment must be made for each.

This method simplifies submission for large groups while still complying with individual screening requirements.

When Should You Apply?

Even when applying on someone else's behalf, it’s best to submit the ESTA application at least 72 hours before departure. While many approvals happen within minutes, delays can occur if additional information is needed.

When ESTA Is Not Enough

While ESTA is ideal for short-term visitors from VWP countries, some travelers are not eligible due to:

  • Dual nationality with restricted countries (e.g., Iran, North Korea)

  • Past visa denials or immigration violations

  • Criminal records or prior deportations

  • Visiting certain countries after March 1, 2011

In such cases, you cannot apply for ESTA—even for someone else. Instead, the traveler must apply for a U.S. visa through the appropriate embassy or consulate.

Final Thoughts on Applying for ESTA for Someone Else

So, can you apply for ESTA for someone else? Absolutely. Whether it’s for a child, partner, friend, or client, the U.S. government’s system allows and even encourages responsible individuals to help others complete the process correctly. Just ensure you have the traveler's consent, accurate data, and a valid passport.

Applying early, double-checking all answers, and keeping a record of the application confirmation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth travel experience.

✅ Apply for Visa Online Now

Ready to apply for an ESTA for yourself or someone else? It’s fast, secure, and done entirely online. Avoid delays and travel stress by starting your application today.

CLICK HERE to get started now:
👉 https://www.touristrequirements.info

Make every journey stress-free—apply for your visa online today.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Who Can Apply for a US Visa? Your Complete Guide to US Visa Eligibility

If you are planning to travel, work, study, or live in the United States, one of the first questions you'll ask is: who can apply for a US visa? The process may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the basic requirements and visa types, it becomes much easier to navigate. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through who can apply for a US visa, the different categories of visas, and what you need to know before beginning your application. We’ll also cover related topics such as visa eligibility, application requirements, and alternatives like the ESTA program. If you're wondering who can apply for a US visa , this article is your one-stop resource. What Is a US Visa? A US visa is an official document that grants permission to enter, stay, or work in the United States for a specific purpose and duration. There are two main categories: Nonimmigrant Visas – for temporary visits (tourism, business, medical treatment, studies, work, etc.) Immigrant Visas – f...
Read more

Who Can Apply for ESTA USA: A Complete Guide for Travelers

If you're planning a trip to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes, it's essential to understand who can apply for ESTA USA . The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a streamlined travel authorization process designed to facilitate short visits to the U.S. without the need for a traditional visa. However, not everyone is eligible. This detailed guide breaks down who can apply for ESTA USA , outlines the requirements, and explores related visa topics that every traveler should know. What Is ESTA USA? ESTA USA is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) , which allows nationals of certain countries to enter the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. ESTA is not a visa but an online travel authorization system managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This system improves security while providing a convenient method for eligible travelers to visit the U.S. for tourism , business , or transit . An approved ESTA ap...
Read more

Who Is Eligible for ESTA Visa: A Complete Travel Guide

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an online travel authorization that allows citizens from certain countries to travel to the United States without needing a traditional visa. This streamlined process is part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) , designed to simplify short-term travel for tourism, business, and transit. However, not everyone is eligible for an ESTA visa , so it’s important to understand who qualifies for this system and how to apply. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore who is eligible for the ESTA visa , how to apply, and some key requirements that travelers must meet to ensure they can use the Visa Waiver Program. What Is ESTA and How Does It Work? Before we delve into eligibility, let’s understand what ESTA is. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online application that U.S. travelers must complete before arriving in the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program . ESTA is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization th...
Read more