The United States will raise the ESTA application fee to $40 (currently $21) starting 30 September 2025. This applies to travellers using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for short business or tourism visits.

Other CBP fee changes on the same date

• I-94 at land borders: total fee $30 ($24 new HR-1 fee + existing $6 processing). This does not affect air/sea arrivals.
• EVUS enrollment (for PRC B1/B2 visa holders): $30.

Annual updates: These fees will be adjusted every year based on the U.S. Consumer Price Index.

Quick advice: how to save money

• Apply before 30 September to lock in the current $21 price. The change is assessed on U.S. time, so submit at least one day earlier to be safe.
• Only use the official site: esta.cbp.dhs.gov (avoid third-party “service” sites that add extra fees).
• Your ESTA is typically valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires). An approval obtained at $21 stays valid for its full validity.

Example savings: Family of 3 applying now saves $57 (3 × $19).

Who needs ESTA (and who doesn’t)

You need ESTA if you’re a national of a Visa Waiver Program country traveling to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business, arriving by air, sea, or land.
If you already hold a U.S. visa (e.g., B1/B2), you don’t apply for ESTA. Canadians generally don’t use ESTA for ordinary visits. (Always check your exact category before travel.)

The new fees at a glance

• ESTA: $40 (VWP travelers) — from 30 Sept 2025.
• I-94 at land borders: $30 total (new $24 HR-1 fee + existing $6).
• EVUS: $30 (only for PRC B1/B2 visa holders).

FAQs

When exactly does the fee change?
CBP states it will begin assessing the new fees on 30 September 2025. To avoid crossing time zones close to the change, apply a day early.

How long is an ESTA valid?
Two years from approval (or until your passport expires), for multiple trips.

What’s the official ESTA site?
esta.cbp.dhs.gov — the only official portal. If a site charges more than the government fee or offers “expedited service,” it’s likely a third-party.

Does the increase affect I-94 or EVUS?
Yes—I-94 land applications total $30, and EVUS enrollment is $30 from the same date.

Will the fee change again?
Yes. The law requires annual CPI adjustments, so expect updates each year.

Source: CBP General Notice / CBP ESTA FAQ / Official ESTA site