How to Renew ESTA: Complete Renewal Guide 2025
Complete guide to renewing your expired ESTA. Learn when to renew, the step-by-step renewal process, what information you need, and important differences between renewal and new applications.
Understanding ESTA Renewal
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) does not have a traditional 'renewal' process. When your ESTA expires or becomes invalid, you must submit a completely new application. However, the process is straightforward and identical to your initial application.
Important Clarification
There is no 'renew' button or simplified renewal process for ESTA. You must complete a brand new application and pay the full $40 fee again, just as you did for your original ESTA.
When You Need to Apply for a New ESTA
You must apply for a new ESTA in these situations:
- ✓Your ESTA has expired (2 years from approval date)
- ✓Your passport has expired or will expire before your ESTA expires
- ✓You obtained a new passport (even if your ESTA has not expired)
- ✓You changed your name (marriage, divorce, legal name change)
- ✓You changed your gender
- ✓You changed your country of citizenship
- ✓Any of your answers to ESTA eligibility questions have changed (health, criminal record, travel history, etc.)
New Passport Invalidates ESTA
If you get a new passport for any reason, your existing ESTA immediately becomes invalid, even if it has years of validity remaining. You must apply for a new ESTA using your new passport information.
When to Submit Your New Application
Recommended timing for your new ESTA application:
Ideal Timing:
- ✓Apply 2-4 weeks before your current ESTA expires
- ✓Apply immediately after receiving a new passport
- ✓Apply as soon as you know your circumstances have changed
- ✓You can apply for a new ESTA at any time, even before your current one expires
Minimum Timing:
- ✓Apply at least 72 hours before your planned travel
- ✓Never wait until the last minute - processing can take up to 72 hours
- ✓Do not book non-refundable travel until your new ESTA is approved
Pro Tip
You can hold two valid ESTAs simultaneously during a transition period. If your current ESTA expires in 2 weeks and you apply for a new one today, both will be valid until the old one expires. This prevents any gap in authorization.
Ready to Get Started?
Complete your ESTA application in minutes with our expert guidance and 99% approval rate
Start Your Application →Step-by-Step Renewal Process
The process for applying for a new ESTA is identical to your original application:
Step 1: Gather Required Information
- ✓Valid e-passport (must be current, not expired)
- ✓Email address for confirmation
- ✓Credit card, debit card, or PayPal for $40 fee
- ✓Travel information if you have specific plans
- ✓Employment information (current employer)
- ✓Parent information (names of both parents)
- ✓Emergency contact information
Step 2: Access the Official Website
- ✓Go to esta.cbp.dhs.gov (official U.S. government website only)
- ✓Click "Apply for ESTA"
- ✓Select "Individual Application"
- ✓Read and accept the disclaimer
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
- ✓Enter passport information exactly as shown on your passport
- ✓Provide personal information (name, date of birth, address)
- ✓Answer all eligibility questions honestly
- ✓Enter travel information (if known)
- ✓Provide employment and parent information
- ✓Review all information carefully for accuracy
Step 4: Submit and Pay
- ✓Review your complete application
- ✓Submit the application
- ✓Pay the $40 fee (non-refundable)
- ✓Save your application number immediately
Step 5: Check Status
- ✓Most applications are approved within minutes
- ✓Check status at esta.cbp.dhs.gov using your application number
- ✓Wait up to 72 hours for final decision if status shows 'pending'
Differences from Your Original Application
While the process is the same, there are a few differences to be aware of when applying for a new ESTA:
Advantages of Reapplying:
- ✓You already know the process and what information is needed
- ✓You likely have your previous application number for reference
- ✓Your information is probably already organized from your first application
- ✓The process should feel faster and easier the second time
Important Considerations:
- ✓You must pay the full $40 fee again - there is no discount for renewals
- ✓Your new ESTA will have a new application number (different from your old one)
- ✓You cannot copy or transfer information from your old ESTA
- ✓If your circumstances have changed, your answers must reflect current information
Important
Even minor changes to your circumstances must be accurately reflected in your new application. Answer all questions based on your current situation, not what you answered before.
Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common errors when applying for a new ESTA:
- ✓Using old passport information instead of new passport details
- ✓Waiting too long - applying the day before travel is risky
- ✓Not updating changed information (new address, new employer, etc.)
- ✓Using third-party websites that charge inflated fees
- ✓Forgetting to save the new application number
- ✓Assuming the old ESTA is still valid after getting a new passport
- ✓Not checking the new ESTA status before traveling
Critical Mistake
Never travel using an expired ESTA or an ESTA linked to an expired/old passport. Airlines will not allow you to board, and you will miss your flight.
Ready to Get Started?
Complete your ESTA application in minutes with our expert guidance and 99% approval rate
Start Your Application →Validity of Your New ESTA
Your new ESTA will be valid for:
- ✓2 years from the approval date, OR
- ✓Until your passport expires, whichever comes first
- ✓Multiple entries to the U.S. during the validity period
- ✓Up to 90 days per visit (cannot be extended)
Validity Example
If your new ESTA is approved on March 1, 2025, it will be valid until March 1, 2027, unless your passport expires before then. If your passport expires on January 15, 2026, your ESTA will also expire on that date.
Renewal Costs and Fees
Understanding the costs for your new ESTA application:
Official Fee: $40 USD $40
- ✓$5 processing fee (charged even if denied)
- ✓$40 authorization fee (only charged if approved)
- ✓Payment methods: Credit card, debit card, or PayPal
- ✓No refunds under any circumstances
Beware of Scams
The official government fee is $40. Third-party websites charge $50-$150+ for the same application. Always use the official website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Cost Comparison:
- ✓Official website: $40 $40
- ✓Third-party websites: $50-$150 (unnecessary markup)
- ✓U.S. embassy visa: $185+ (if ESTA is not available)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Can I renew my ESTA before it expires?
Q:How much does it cost to renew ESTA?
Q:Can I use my old ESTA application number to renew?
Q:What if I get a new passport 6 months before my ESTA expires?
Q:Is the renewal process different from the original application?
Q:Can I renew my ESTA if it was previously denied?
Q:How long does the renewal process take?
Q:Will my new ESTA have the same approval status as my old one?
Q:Can I travel while my renewal application is pending?
Q:Do I need to renew if I am not planning to travel to the U.S.?
Apply for Your ESTA Today
Join thousands of satisfied travelers. Our expert team will guide you through every step of the application process.