If you’re planning a trip to the United States with travelers under 18 years old, understanding the ESTA for under 18 process is crucial. The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is mandatory for all visitors from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries—including minors. This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about applying for ESTA for children and teenagers under 18, including costs, procedures, and important tips.
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an automated system used by the U.S. government to determine the eligibility of travelers from VWP countries to enter the United States without obtaining a traditional visa.
All travelers from VWP countries—regardless of age—must have an approved ESTA before boarding a U.S.-bound flight or ship. This means every traveler under 18 must have their own ESTA approval before traveling to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit, even infants and newborns.
If you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country and under 18 years old, you must apply for your own ESTA. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires this to ensure proper screening of all travelers, including minors.
Traveling minors who do not have an approved ESTA will not be permitted to board flights or vessels bound for the United States under the VWP.
The ESTA application for minors under 18 follows the same steps as for adults, but the application must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.
Use the child or teenager’s valid passport information.
Complete the online application on their behalf, accurately providing all required details.
Review all entered information carefully before submitting.
Pay the applicable fees online via credit or debit card.
There is no age discount or exemption for minors. The ESTA fees are the same for all applicants, regardless of age.
Application Fee: $4 USD (charged upon submission, non-refundable)
Authorization Fee: $17 USD (charged only if the application is approved)
Total cost per minor applicant: $21 USD (if approved)
If the ESTA application is denied, only the $4 application fee is charged.
Each traveler under 18 must have their own valid passport. Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned trip.
If traveling with several children or teenagers under 18, each individual needs a separate ESTA and payment.
An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the minor’s passport expires—whichever comes first—and allows multiple entries into the U.S. within that timeframe.
If a minor renews or changes their passport during the ESTA validity period, a new ESTA application must be submitted.
If the ESTA application for a child or teenager under 18 is denied, the traveler cannot enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Instead, the minor must apply for a traditional U.S. visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
It’s advisable to apply for ESTA approval at least 72 hours before departure. This allows time to address any issues or reapply if necessary.
No. All minors, regardless of age, must have their own ESTA approval if traveling under the Visa Waiver Program. Airlines and carriers will check ESTA status before allowing boarding.
Every traveler under 18 from a Visa Waiver Program country needs an approved ESTA before traveling to the U.S.
The ESTA cost for minors is the same as adults: $21 USD total if approved ($4 application fee + $17 authorization fee).
A parent or guardian must complete the application with accurate passport details.
ESTA approval lasts two years or until passport expiry, allowing multiple trips.
Apply early—preferably at least 72 hours before travel—to avoid last-minute issues.
Traveling with children and teens to the United States is straightforward when you know the ESTA requirements for under 18 travelers. Making sure each minor has their own approved ESTA helps guarantee smooth entry and peace of mind on your journey.