Can You Apply for an ESTA as a Couple? A Complete Guide

If you and your partner are planning a trip to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you might be wondering if it’s possible to apply for an ESTA as a couple. While ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a convenient online system for travelers from eligible countries, the application process is designed for individual submissions. However, there are some important details you should know when applying for ESTA as a couple, especially if you plan to travel together.

In this guide, we’ll explain the process of applying for ESTA as a couple, how it works, and what you need to consider before submitting your application.

What Is ESTA and Why Is It Important?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online program that allows citizens from certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit purposes without the need for a visa. ESTA is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows travelers to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

Unlike a regular U.S. visa, an ESTA is not a physical document or visa sticker placed in your passport. It is an electronic authorization linked to your passport, which allows you to board your flight to the U.S. and enter under the VWP, as long as your stay is within the 90-day limit.

Can You Apply for an ESTA as a Couple?

When it comes to applying for an ESTA as a couple, the answer is no, you cannot submit a joint ESTA application. Each person needs to apply for their own ESTA, and the application is processed individually. However, this doesn’t mean the process is complicated for couples. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Individual Applications Are Required

Each individual, regardless of whether they are traveling with a partner, must submit their own ESTA application. This means you and your partner will need to apply separately, even if you are traveling together. Each person will need to provide personal information, passport details, and answers to security-related questions during the application process.

Even if you are married or in a long-term relationship, each person’s ESTA authorization is handled separately. Both individuals need to meet the eligibility requirements individually for the application to be approved.

2. Eligibility Requirements for Couples

To qualify for ESTA, both you and your partner must meet certain requirements:

  • You must be citizens of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

  • Your passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the U.S.

  • You must be traveling for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

  • You must meet health and security requirements, such as not having a criminal record or communicable diseases.

  • You must not have overstayed a previous visit to the U.S. under the VWP.

Each of you should ensure that you meet these eligibility criteria before applying for ESTA.

Steps to Apply for ESTA as a Couple

Although you apply separately, the steps for applying for ESTA are the same for each of you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, both you and your partner should confirm that your country of citizenship is part of the Visa Waiver Program. If you’re both eligible, you can proceed with the application.

2. Submit Individual Applications

Each person must visit the official ESTA website to complete their application. You will need to provide basic personal information, including:

  • Full name (as it appears on your passport)

  • Passport information (number, issue date, expiration date)

  • Travel details (date of arrival and departure)

  • Contact information (email address)

Both you and your partner must answer questions about your health, criminal background, and prior travel to the U.S.

3. Pay the ESTA Fee

There is a small fee for applying for ESTA, which must be paid at the time of application. You can pay for each individual’s ESTA application separately using a valid credit or debit card.

4. Wait for Approval

Once the application is submitted, approval is typically granted within minutes, though it’s recommended to apply at least 72 hours in advance of your trip. The ESTA authorization will be electronically linked to each person’s passport, so there is no need for a physical document.

5. Travel to the U.S.

Once both you and your partner have received your ESTA approval, you are both free to travel to the United States together. It’s important to remember that while ESTA allows you to board a flight to the U.S., final admission is determined by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.

Important Considerations for Couples Traveling Together

While you and your partner must apply for ESTA individually, there are a few important things to consider when traveling as a couple:

1. Travel Together but Separate Approvals

Even though you apply for ESTA separately, you can still travel together as a couple. Your ESTA approval will not affect your partner’s application, so long as both of you meet the eligibility requirements.

2. Same Travel Dates and Flight

If you are traveling on the same flight, make sure that your ESTA applications reflect the same travel dates and arrival details. While you don’t need to include your partner’s information on your application, having matching travel dates ensures that both applications align.

3. Double Check Your Passport Validity

Since ESTA is linked to your passport, it’s essential to ensure both you and your partner’s passports are valid for at least six months beyond your departure from the U.S. If either of your passports expires before that time, you may be denied ESTA authorization.

Can You Apply for ESTA for Your Children or Family Members?

While you and your partner apply for ESTA separately, parents can apply for ESTA for their minor children (under 18). The child’s ESTA application is submitted as part of the parent’s application, and the child will be granted ESTA authorization based on the parent’s information.

If you are traveling as a family with children, each adult will need to submit their own ESTA application, while the parent or guardian can apply for ESTA for their minor children.

Apply for ESTA Online Now

If you and your partner are ready to travel to the United States, make sure you apply for ESTA as soon as possible. While you need to apply individually, the process is straightforward and convenient. Once both you and your partner have your ESTA approvals, you’ll be ready for your adventure in the U.S.

👉 CLICK HERE to Apply for ESTA Online Now!

Traveling together is an exciting experience, and with ESTA, the process is easier than ever. Just remember to apply individually and ensure your ESTA is approved well in advance of your trip. Enjoy your journey to the U.S.!

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