ESTA for UK Families: How to Apply, Cost & Common Mistakes (2026)
- Nikki Taylor
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 23
✨ ESTA for UK Families: How to Apply, Cost & Common Mistakes (2026)
If you’re planning a trip to the United States with your family, one of the first things you’ll need to sort is an ESTA.
Many UK parents aren’t sure what it is, who needs one, or how to apply—especially when travelling with children.
In this guide, we’ll break it down simply so you can avoid mistakes and make sure your trip goes smoothly.
✨ What Is an ESTA?
An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a travel authorisation that allows UK citizens to visit the United States without a visa.
It is required under the Visa Waiver Program and must be approved before you travel.
✨ Do Children Need an ESTA?
Yes—every traveller needs their own ESTA, including babies and children.
Even if your child is included on your booking, they must have:
Their own passport
Their own approved ESTA
✨ How to Apply for an ESTA (Step-by-Step)
Applying is straightforward and usually takes around 10–20 minutes.
Step 1:
Go to the official ESTA application website (they also have an app to complete your application but it can be temperamental)
Step 2:
Complete the application form with:
Passport details
Travel information
Basic personal details
Step 3:
Pay the fee online
Step 4:
Wait for approval (often within minutes, but allow up to 72 hours) Out of our party of four, three came back instantly and the other came through the next day.
✨ How Much Does an ESTA Cost?
Currently, an ESTA costs:
$40.27 per person (roughly £32, depending on exchange rates)
This applies to every traveller, including children. There are no family or group discounts, and each person needs a separate application.
✨ How Long Does an ESTA Last?
Once approved, an ESTA is valid for:
2 years, or
Until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
You can use it for multiple trips during this time.
✨ Common ESTA Mistakes to Avoid
Many families run into issues because of simple mistakes. Here are the most common ones:
Entering incorrect passport details
Applying too late
Using unofficial (and more expensive) websites, these charge more for doing exactly what you do on the official site.
Assuming children don’t need one
👉 Always double-check your details before submitting.
✨ When Should You Apply?
It’s best to apply for your ESTA:
At least 72 hours before travel
Ideally as soon as you start planning your trip
This avoids last-minute stress.
✨ Planning a Family Trip from the UK
When planning a trip to the US, it’s not just visas and passports you need to think about.
If you’re travelling during the school year, it’s important to understand UK school attendance rules and potential fines.
You can read a full guide to understanding fines when taking your child out of schools here.
Before booking, it’s also worth checking whether your child’s absence will be approved by the school:
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