US to Increase ESTA Fee to Forty Dollars for European Travelers, Adding to Visa Hikes Amid Decline in International Tourism

Written By: Jishnoo Banerjee

Jishnoo Banerjee

A published author with over 9 years of experience in writing, poetry, and novel creation. Starting out on social media, Jishnoo gained recognition for engaging content in both English and Bengali. With a strong background as a news content writer, Jishnoo now contributes to a prestigious global travel magazine. Known for blending creative writing with journalism, the work seamlessly combines artistic expression with insightful reporting across different platforms.

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September 7, 2025 02:19 GMT+5:30

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Starting on September 30, 2025, the US will increase the ESTA fee for European travelers from $21 (€18) to $40 (€34). This rise in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) fee comes at a time when the US is already grappling with a decline in international tourism. The fee hike not only reflects the growing costs of travel to the US, but it also adds to the larger trend of rising visa fees that could further discourage visitors.

What is the ESTA Fee?

The ESTA fee refers to the cost associated with applying for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which is required for travelers from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This system allows citizens of these countries to visit the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa, primarily for tourism, business, or transit. The ESTA fee covers the processing and approval of an individual’s travel authorization. It typically includes a processing charge and an additional authorization fee. The fee helps fund the system that screens applicants before their arrival in the US to ensure security and compliance with travel regulations. The amount of the ESTA fee has recently increased, reflecting adjustments in US immigration and travel policy.

Why the ESTA Fee Is Increasing

The fee hike follows the passing of legislation by the US Congress in July 2025, which sets out to raise funds for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Under the VWP, citizens from 41 countries, including EU states and the UK, can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa. However, they must apply for ESTA approval, which is valid for two years.

New Fee Structure

The new ESTA fee will be divided into two parts: a $10 processing charge and a $30 authorization fee. The $30 authorization charge includes a $17 travel promotion fee and a $13 Treasury General Fund fee. If an ESTA application is rejected, the applicant will only pay the $10 processing fee.

Impact on US Tourism

The fee increase comes at a time when the US is already facing a decline in international visitors. Preliminary data from the US National Travel and Tourism Office reveals that international arrivals, excluding Canada and Mexico, dropped by 1.6% in 2025, equating to over 3 million fewer visitors compared to 2024. This downturn has extended into the summer months, with a 3.1% decline in visitors during July 2025.

Many in the travel industry are concerned that the fee hike, along with other factors like the country’s recent immigration policies, may further deter foreign tourists from visiting the US. In addition to the ESTA increase, a new $250 visa integrity fee will take effect on October 1, 2025, for travelers from non-visa waiver countries. This will raise the total cost of a US visa to $442 (€379), among the highest in the world.

Additional Charges and Global Comparisons

The visa integrity fee affects travelers from countries like Mexico, China, India, Argentina, and Brazil. This charge, when added to the existing visa application fees, places the US on par with other high-cost countries like Australia and the UK, whose tourist visas are also expensive.

Future Outlook for US Tourism

The US has already been experiencing declining interest as a tourist destination, with many travelers seeking alternatives due to the country’s policies. With the additional cost increases, experts predict that the US Travel Association’s goal of surpassing pre-pandemic tourism levels may become even more difficult.

Despite the cost hikes, the US remains a top destination for international travelers, and the US State Department continues to adjust policies and fees to manage visa applications and international travel trends. However, the question remains as to whether these increases will push more people to consider other global destinations, especially when combined with the US’s evolving policies.