Effective January 12, 2009, Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) became mandatory by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This new online system is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and all nationals or citizens of VWP countries who plan to travel to the United States for 90 days or less for temporary business or pleasure under the VWP will need to receive an electronic travel authorization prior to boarding a U.S.-bound airplane or cruise ship.
Please see the process of following ESTA application before applying for ESTA and confirm the flow from application to the response. It is necessary to finish four steps to acquire the ESTA authorization. The response of the ESTA authorization is displayed in Step 4, please confirm you have completed up to step 4.
Step 1: Complete Your Application
For visitors applying for a new travel authorization, please click "Apply" button on the bottom left. You need to enter all mandatory fields indicated by a red asterisk *.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
This is to confirm the information you entered in Step 1. Please review carefully all your data is accurate. If you entered incorrect data you will see an error message in red. After reviewing all information, you need to enter your passport number for verification. Please enter the text from the image screen, then click "Apply" button.
Step 3: Receive and Record Your Application Number
Please record your Application Number or print this page. Your Application Number will be required if you need to check the status of a completed application at another time. Click the "Next" button for Step 4.
Step 4: Receive Response to Your Application
In most cases, you will receive one of three responses within seconds. If you receive "Authorization Approved", you can travel to the U.S. under VWP. The Application Number and its expiration will be printed. Please print this page(you don't need to show this page at a airport). If you receive "Authorization Pending", it means your application is under review. Please check the ESTA Web site for update within 72 hours to receive a final response. If you receive "Travel Not Authorized", you need to apply for a visa at the nearest Embassy or Consulate.
Here is the site for ESTA:
Online Application Form
