Applying for new ESTA

[RooFlyer]

Nothing controversial here, just a few observations.

* Birth date format is dd/mm/yyyy rather than the usual mm/dd/yyyy USA format
* 'mobile' phone is described as that - not 'cell' as is usual in USA

US Government departments are not usually so accommodating of 'foreign' formats and terminology .

One question asks if I will be transiting USA on my visit. Yes/no. An odd one - many like myself don't know the answer to that, as trip isn't booked yet. I answered 'yes', as its what I usually do.

Question whether I have 'a physical or mental disorder' yes/no. Now that's a can of worms

All in all as painless as the previous, simpler version. US$14 still, as it was at least back in 2011 IIRC.

Lastly, it asked if I would like to complete a survey when I next enter the US. Having said yes, but not knowing when it would be, they will e-mail it to me .

 

[JohnM]

I last applied for a new ESTA in July 2014. I know that they are valid for two years.

However, IIRC, there was mention a few months ago about changes to the information required for an ESTA application.

Was the consensus that it was worthwhile applying for a new ESTA even though a current one is still valid?

 

[RooFlyer]

I had no problems entering the USA on my 18 month - 2yr old ESTA, after the changes had been brought in. Once on the auto kiosks, and twice with manual booths. I think the reports of old ESTA holders being called into a special line was immediately after the into of the new ESTAs (more detailed info required, for those unfamiliar with the issue) and I gather the wrinkles were ironed out.

I would wait till the existing ESTA expires (they send you a reminder a month before).

 

[docjames]

You can always log in online and update details to the upcoming trip (rather than get a new one).

 

[cove]

I lodged my new one today.
$14 U.S. is a very reasonable price.

 

[Foreigner]

Applied tonight for ESTA for forthcoming trip to the US. Took 1 minute for approval. Interestingly, the expiry is about 22 months - on 03 March 2018.

 

[Isochronous]

Does it still ask you if you've ever visited Iran? A friend of mine visited and I'm tempted to go sightseeing there, but if it makes ESTA more difficult I might hesitate.

 

[N860CR]

If you've visited Iran, you're not eligible for an ESTA.

 

[Foreigner]

Does it still ask you if you've ever visited Iran? A friend of mine visited and I'm tempted to go sightseeing there, but if it makes ESTA more difficult I might hesitate.

Application asks of Iran and 2 other countries. I think Libya is one of them.

 

[JohnM]

Application asks of Iran and 2 other countries. I think Libya is one of them.

Covered here; not a big deal: http://www.australianfrequentflyer....ustoms/us-visa-waivers-travel-iran-75601.html

 

[Ben6]

I'm sure this has been covered before but be careful of scam sites charging $89 or similar for a $14 service. I may have been duped except this isn't my first rodeo and I didn't recall the fee to be that high. Official site is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/