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What You Need To Know About The ESTA Form

Last year, I flew to San Francisco to spend time with family and friends. The trip took quite a bit of preparation. One of the things I needed was a so-called ESTA form, giving me authorisation to enter the United States. Most tourists need to get this form. In this blog, I’ll explain how this can be arranged and what it all entails.

What exactly is an ESTA form?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated programme that screens travellers before they enter the United States. This screening takes the form of questions regarding your background, work and possible brushes with the justice department. Leisure and business travellers need to request this form if they are planning to stay in the US for anything up to 90 days. The requirement to request an ESTA form depends on where you live. Check here whether you need and ESTA form or not.

What if I plan to stay in the US longer than 90 days?

That’s possible, but you then have to request a visa at the American embassy or at a consulate.

How long does the ESTA form remain valid?

Once approved, the ESTA form remains valid for two years. During that period, you can travel to the US as often as you like. NB: If you have been issued a tourist, work or student visa, you do not have to request an ESTA form. Your approved ESTA is linked to your passport, which means you have to request a new ESTA if you renew your passport (for whatever reason) within the two-year validity period.

Is it obligatory to request an ESTA?

You are obliged to request an ESTA if you: a) catch a connecting flight in the US, or b) if you intend to stay in the US for up to 90 days. This also applies for (shorter) business trips, which means you don’t need a visa.

How do I request an ESTA form?

You can do so easily online via the official American ESTA site . If you find this too much hassle or don’t quite understand what you need to fill in, there are various organisations that are willing to assist you (for a fee), including [https://e-visums.nl/usa] and [https://www.esta-aanvragen.nl/]. You can also fill the form in at the airport, but bear in mind that it can take quite a while for your ESTA to be approved.

 What does it cost to request an ESTA?

Nothing is free in this world, which is why an ESTA form will cost you US$14. And if you call in an agency to do the paperwork for you, it will cost you more, of course.

Once my ESTA is approved, will I automatically be allowed to enter the US?

Yes, the form does indeed give you permission to enter the country, but the border control authorities have the final say. They give your status a final check before granting you access to American soil.

News: You now also need an extra permit for Canada

From 15 March 2016, travellers to Canada are also required to fill in an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) form. This is actually much like an ESTA and is required for people travelling to Canada (staying up to 90 days) or transferring in Canada. And once again, the requirements for requesting this form vary depending on where you live. Check here whether you need to request an eTA form.

Because this requirement is new, the Canadian government has adopted a flexible approach and will, until the autumn of 2016, allow you to board without this form, as long as you have your passport and other travel documentation, of course.

A few final tips:

• Make sure you start preparing well ahead of departure. You should submit your request at least 72 hours ahead of departure. You can apply after this time, but if you don’t get permission, you probably won’t have enough time to request a visa.

• You only have to pay for your ESTA if your passport has been renewed or if your previous ESTA has expired.

• In order to check in online via KLM.com , you must have all the necessary travel documentation, including your ESTA, visa and other permits.

Eline van der Haar

Thanks for sharing! I corrected the weblink, so it should be fine now :-). Have a nice day!

Félix Maltchinski

For Eta I have to go thru before back home to Canada as a Canadian citizen.

Wow – I didn’t know that the Canadians had also introduced a similar requirements – MANY thanks for letting us know.

It’s almost time to book a flight to Toronto on KLM – as long as it is a 747 with the new WBC :)

Hi Rachel, I’m glad my blog taught you something new. When will you be flying to Toronto? Would be nice to welcome you aboard again soon. Kind regards, Eline

Thanks for the reply. Hopefully off to Toronto in July – if not then, December. :)

As agreed with the Government of Canada, the AF/KL communication should stick to the 15 March deadline as the entry into force for the newly introduced eTA. Therefore passengers, who under the regualtion would have required an eTA, could be allowed to travel to Canada provided they meet all other conditions for that entry until 30 September 2016.

This is a great blog and is very informative. It really does include EVERYTHING you need to know about the Esta form! I think it is so much better that you can now do it all online, this is much less time consuming and probably easier to do.

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Travel to and from the USA

When you travel to, via, or from the United States, you might need extra documents or add more information. Here’s all you need to know and arrange.

The Visa Waiver Programme allows citizens of specific countries to travel visa-free to the United States. Instead of a visa, you will have to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation).

Check which countries participate in the Visa Waiver Programme

Requesting ESTA

If you need an ESTA, you can choose to let our partner Sherpa take care of everything for you at a fee. Or you can organise it yourself via the US Customs and Border Protection website.

Make sure to apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before departure. After this, there may not be enough time to process your application.

When applying for an ESTA, please enter the information exactly as stated in your passport. If you have a new passport or your previous ESTA has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new ESTA. After approval, you’ll receive a reference number. ESTA authorisation remains valid for 2 years.

Mobile Passport Control app

If you are an American or Canadian citizen, or a returning ESTA holder, you can expedite your passage through US customs using the free and secure Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app. By successfully utilizing this app, there is no longer a requirement for filling out paper forms or use an APC kiosk, making your process faster and more efficient.

Arrange visa

If you need to arrange a visa, our partner Sherpa can take care of your application at a fee. Or you can organise it yourself via the applicable authorities. To check in online via KLM.com, your travel documents (visa or otherwise) must be complete.

Secure Flight programme

The Secure Flight programme of the United States government requires airlines to register some personal data when you book your flight. This includes your gender, date of birth, and your first and family name exactly as stated in your passport. We are required to pass this information of all our passengers to the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at least 72 hours before departure.

TSA PreCheck

Travelling from or within the USA? You can participate in the PreCheck programme of the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You’ll still have to undergo a quick security check but don’t need to remove your electronic devices, liquids, shoes, belt, and light jackets.

When you’re accepted to the programme, make sure to add your TSA Known Traveller Number via My Trip. The TSA PreCheck logo or the text “TSA PRE” will appear on your boarding pass.

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to fly to the us.

To travel to the US, you need a valid passport plus a visa or an ESTA. Through our partner Sherpa, we are happy to help you with that.

Read more about

Restricted items checked bags.

Rules for packing items in your checked baggage.

Travel requirements

Getting ready for your next trip? The requirements for travelling may differ for each destination. To help you travel with peace of mind, we’ll give you an overview.

Check requirements

Want to make sure you have every document you need to board? With KLM’s TravelDoc tool, you can easily check the requirements for your trip. Make sure to check it shortly before departure, as they can change quickly.

Rules and regulations

Covid-19 tests, do i need to get tested on covid-19 before my flight.

We advise checking the embassy website of the country you’re visiting. Next to that, you can check our TravelDoc tool to see what you need to prepare for your trip.

Go to KLM’s TravelDoc

Are you travelling to, from, or via the Netherlands?

Check the website of the Dutch government for up-to-date information.

Visit the website of the Dutch government

When arriving in the Netherlands, you may be asked to show the needed documents to airport staff or the designated (medical) authorities, such as the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. If you cannot show these documents, you may be denied entry into the Netherlands.

I am already vaccinated for COVID-19. Do I still need to get tested?

Please check TravelDoc to see what applies to your trip. Be sure to check which type of vaccine is accepted and what the minimum time is between the date of your last injection and your date of arrival. In addition, check if your destination allows vaccines from the country in which you have been vaccinated.

Note: scanning the QR code is not yet possible at all airports. Please make sure to bring your vaccination certificate, negative test result, or recovery certificate with you on paper.

Where can I find a testing centre?

If you need a negative COVID-19 test result before departure, please check the below-mentioned websites for test locations all around the world. Or scroll down this page and select your country.

View KLM Health Services for test locations in the Netherlands

View global rapid and PCR test locations on the website of the Dutch authorities

What type of COVID-19 test do I need for travel?

The type of COVID-19 test required varies by destination. Visit TravelDoc to find out which test you will need to take before you can travel.

When do I need to get tested to travel?

The validity period for COVID-19 tests is short: usually a few days before departure or arrival depending on the country. Visit TravelDoc to find out when to get tested before you can travel.

Does my child need a COVID-19 test to travel?

Testing requirements for children depend on the destination country. Please consult TravelDoc to find out if your child needs to be tested for your trip.

I’ve received my test results. What document do I need to show at the airport?

Some countries require a test certificate in digital or printed format, which may include a QR code. This certificate may be different from the result sent by your lab. Visit TravelDoc to verify which document to show at the airport.

Because of a delayed flight, my COVID-19 tests are no longer valid. What should I do now?

Please check TravelDoc for more information, as the requirements differ per country.

Additional travel requirements

I have been vaccinated against covid-19. do i still need quarantine upon arrival.

Different measures apply to each country. Please check TravelDoc to see which type of vaccine is accepted and what the minimum time is between the date of your last injection and your date of arrival. In addition, check if your destination allows vaccines from the country in which you have been vaccinated.

Travelling (back) to the Netherlands? You can also check the website of the Dutch government.

Do I need to submit a quarantine declaration when travelling to, from, or via the Netherlands?

Currently, there are no countries with a new virus variant of concern. Self-quarantining is no longer required, and you do not have to fill in a declaration. If you are travelling back from a country where a new virus variant of concern is emerging, you will be required to self-quarantine upon your return. Do the travel check if you want more information about travelling (back) during corona.

Do the travel check

Need to transfer to another flight? Watch our video and find out what to do to smoothly continue your journey.

Transferring at another airport

Worldwide test locations.

Do you need a negative (rapid) test result for travel? Please select the country of your departure below to find a test location near you. Are you looking for a test location in another country? Select another country from the list.

Angola Argentina Aruba Australia Austria Bahrain Belarus Belgium Belize Bonaire Brazil Bulgaria Canada Chile China Colombia Congo Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt Estonia Ethiopia Finland France Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Hong Kong, China Hungary India Indonesia Iran Ireland Israel Italy Japan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea Kuwait Latvia Liberia Lithuania Luxembourg Malaysia Malta Mauritius Mexico Namibia Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nigeria Norway Oman Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Serbia Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Taiwan, China Tanzania Thailand Turkey Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Zambia Zimbabwe

Travelling and COVID-19

Curious about which COVID-19 measures are still in place? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed all information you need for a safe and pleasant trip.

Prepare your trip

Travel requirements

Read all about testing, vaccination, health declarations, and entry requirements.

Health safety measures

Read all about our (hygiene) measures, mouth masks, and what you can expect onboard.

Rebooking and cancellation

Need to change or cancel your travel plans because of COVID-19? We’ve gathered the most asked questions and answered them for you.

Travel requirements

Getting ready for your next trip? The requirements for travelling may differ for each destination. To help you travel with peace of mind, we’ll give you an overview.

Check requirements

Want to make sure you have every document you need to board? With KLM’s TravelDoc tool, you can easily check the requirements for your trip. Make sure to check it shortly before departure, as they can change quickly.

Rules and regulations

Covid-19 tests, do i need to get tested on covid-19 before my flight.

We advise checking the embassy website of the country you’re visiting. Next to that, you can check our TravelDoc tool to see what you need to prepare for your trip.

Go to KLM’s TravelDoc

Are you travelling to, from, or via the Netherlands?

Check the website of the Dutch government for up-to-date information.

Visit the website of the Dutch government

When arriving in the Netherlands, you may be asked to show the needed documents to airport staff or the designated (medical) authorities, such as the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. If you cannot show these documents, you may be denied entry into the Netherlands.

I am already vaccinated for COVID-19. Do I still need to get tested?

Please check TravelDoc to see what applies to your trip. Be sure to check which type of vaccine is accepted and what the minimum time is between the date of your last injection and your date of arrival. In addition, check if your destination allows vaccines from the country in which you have been vaccinated.

Note: scanning the QR code is not yet possible at all airports. Please make sure to bring your vaccination certificate, negative test result, or recovery certificate with you on paper.

Where can I find a testing centre?

If you need a negative COVID-19 test result before departure, please check the below-mentioned websites for test locations all around the world. Or scroll down this page and select your country.

View KLM Health Services for test locations in the Netherlands

View global rapid and PCR test locations on the website of the Dutch authorities

What type of COVID-19 test do I need for travel?

The type of COVID-19 test required varies by destination. Visit TravelDoc to find out which test you will need to take before you can travel.

When do I need to get tested to travel?

The validity period for COVID-19 tests is short: usually a few days before departure or arrival depending on the country. Visit TravelDoc to find out when to get tested before you can travel.

Does my child need a COVID-19 test to travel?

Testing requirements for children depend on the destination country. Please consult TravelDoc to find out if your child needs to be tested for your trip.

I’ve received my test results. What document do I need to show at the airport?

Some countries require a test certificate in digital or printed format, which may include a QR code. This certificate may be different from the result sent by your lab. Visit TravelDoc to verify which document to show at the airport.

Because of a delayed flight, my COVID-19 tests are no longer valid. What should I do now?

Please check TravelDoc for more information, as the requirements differ per country.

Additional travel requirements

I have been vaccinated against covid-19. do i still need quarantine upon arrival.

Different measures apply to each country. Please check TravelDoc to see which type of vaccine is accepted and what the minimum time is between the date of your last injection and your date of arrival. In addition, check if your destination allows vaccines from the country in which you have been vaccinated.

Travelling (back) to the Netherlands? You can also check the website of the Dutch government.

Do I need to submit a quarantine declaration when travelling to, from, or via the Netherlands?

Currently, there are no countries with a new virus variant of concern. Self-quarantining is no longer required, and you do not have to fill in a declaration. If you are travelling back from a country where a new virus variant of concern is emerging, you will be required to self-quarantine upon your return. Do the travel check if you want more information about travelling (back) during corona.

Do the travel check

Need to transfer to another flight? Watch our video and find out what to do to smoothly continue your journey.

Transferring at another airport

Worldwide test locations.

Do you need a negative (rapid) test result for travel? Please select the country of your departure below to find a test location near you. Are you looking for a test location in another country? Select another country from the list.

Angola Argentina Aruba Australia Austria Bahrain Belarus Belgium Belize Bonaire Brazil Bulgaria Canada Chile China Colombia Congo Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt Estonia Ethiopia Finland France Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Hong Kong, China Hungary India Indonesia Iran Ireland Israel Italy Japan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea Kuwait Latvia Liberia Lithuania Luxembourg Malaysia Malta Mauritius Mexico Namibia Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nigeria Norway Oman Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Serbia Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Taiwan, China Tanzania Thailand Turkey Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Zambia Zimbabwe

Travelling and COVID-19

Curious about which COVID-19 measures are still in place? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed all information you need for a safe and pleasant trip.

Prepare your trip

Travel requirements

Read all about testing, vaccination, health declarations, and entry requirements.

Health safety measures

Read all about our (hygiene) measures, mouth masks, and what you can expect onboard.

Rebooking and cancellation

Need to change or cancel your travel plans because of COVID-19? We’ve gathered the most asked questions and answered them for you.