LIMO
【アメリカ旅行】ESTA申請費用の大幅値上げ直前 旅行好き元CAが解説する「知っておきたいこと7選」 | LIMO | くらしとお金の経済メディア
今回は、akko_san_dayoさんが投稿した「ESTA申請の重要ポイント」についてご紹介します。
3
68
27
4k
US ESTA Fee to Double: Travelers Urged to Apply Before September 30, 2025 Deadline
US ESTA Application Fee Set to Double, Travelers Urged to Apply Soon Travelers planning trips to the United States are facing a significant increase in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application fee. Effective September 30, 2025, the fee will rise from the current $21 to $40, nearly doubling the cost. This change impacts individuals from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program who wish to enter the U.S. for tourism or business. A former flight attendant, Akko_san, recently highlighted this impending change and provided crucial advice for prospective travelers. According to Akko_san, "Anyone considering travel or business trips to the U.S. should apply now to avoid the increased fees." Key points from her advisory include: * Validity: ESTA approval is valid for two years. However, it is linked to the passport number, meaning a new application is required if the passport expires within this period. * Accommodation Details: While it is possible to apply for ESTA without a confirmed accommodation address by entering "UNKNOWN," it is recommended to provide a planned state capital or hotel name for smoother entry processes, as immigration officers may inquire about the initial lodging. * Fraudulent Websites: Travelers are strongly cautioned against using unofficial or fraudulent websites. Akko_san advises, "When searching for 'ESTA application,' many unofficial or scam sites appear at the top of search results. Always apply through the official website of the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Japan." * Pre-Approval is Mandatory: Without an approved ESTA, airlines will not issue boarding passes, effectively preventing travel. "If approval is not granted, airlines cannot issue tickets," Akko_san confirmed after verifying with airline ground staff. * Avoid Same-Day Applications: While rare instances of quick approval (1-2 hours) have occurred, it is now common for ESTA applications to take over a day for processing. Applying at the airport on the day of departure is highly unlikely to result in timely approval. * Hawaii Requires ESTA: ESTA is mandatory for travel to Hawaii. For Guam and Saipan, a separate, free electronic travel authorization known as "Guam-CNMI ETA" is required instead of ESTA. Akko_san concluded her advice by emphasizing the importance of self-reliance: "Before asking questions, please try to research on your own. Asking others takes up their time. Ask only when you truly cannot find the answer after thorough research." This fee adjustment necessitates prompt action for those planning upcoming U.S. travel to secure their authorization at the current rate.
