Which countries have electronic passports eligible for ESTA?

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is a well-known system for those intending to travel to the United States without the need for a traditional visa, as long as they qualify under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This program allows citizens of selected countries to enter the U.S. for tourism or business for a short period, provided the passport is electronic – that is, it contains a chip with biometric data.

Currently, holders of electronic passports issued by the following countries may apply for ESTA: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Taiwan.

It is important to note that the list of participating countries and the specifications regarding passport formats may be updated periodically by American authorities. Therefore, always check the most recent information on the official websites of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before starting the process.

Additionally, it is essential to strictly follow United States immigration laws. Always seek reliable sources and, if in doubt, consult professionals or specialized entities in the area. Be cautious of marketing campaigns promising miraculous solutions or guaranteed approval, as they can not only be misleading but also put your travel and documents at risk. Staying well informed and keeping up with updates is the first step toward a safe and smooth travel experience.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.