ESTA denied: Why it happens and how to apply again

An ESTA denial can be alarming, especially if you already have travel plans to the United States. Yet, this situation is not uncommon, and most refusals are due to simple errors, incomplete information, or specific eligibility restrictions. In some cases, travelers may reapply with corrected details, while in others, a visa becomes necessary. Understanding the reasons behind an ESTA refusal—whether related to incorrect data, previous travel history, or nationality restrictions—helps you find the right solution. This guide explains the most frequent ESTA denial causes, what “travel not authorized” means, and your available options.

ESTA denied: What to do?

• ❌ Common reasons: form errors, passport issues, criminal records, or restricted nationality.
• 📑 Reapply: possible if the denial comes from mistakes or incomplete data.
• 🛂 Visa required: if ESTA denial is confirmed, a B1/B2 US visa is the only option.
• 🔎 Check carefully: review all details before submitting a new application.
• 💡 Plan ahead: apply for ESTA several weeks before your trip to avoid last-minute issues.

Common reasons for ESTA refusal:

If you have submitted an ESTA application to travel to the United States and received a response indicating that your application has been refused, this can be a source of stress and confusion. There are several common reasons why an ESTA refused application may occur, but fortunately, there are possible solutions for each situation.

• ❌ Errors in the application: One of the main reasons for ESTA denial is the presence of errors or incomplete information in the application. It is important to carefully check all information entered, including names, dates of birth, and passport numbers to avoid denial.
• ⚖️ Criminal or health history: One of the conditions of admission for a stay in the United States is that you do not have a criminal or health history that could pose a threat to public safety. If you have been convicted of a crime or have a contagious disease, this could result in your ESTA application being denied.
• 🛂 Length of stay or purpose of travel: ESTA is intended for tourism, business or transit travel, with a limited stay of 90 days. If you are planning a longer stay or if the purpose of your trip does not fall into these categories, your ESTA application may be denied.
• 🌍 Links to high-risk countries: If you have visited countries that pose a risk to the security of the United States, your ESTA application may be denied. High-risk countries are generally those where terrorist activities or armed conflicts have recently taken place.

👉 In the event of an ESTA refusal, it is sometimes possible to reapply with corrections. If the refusal is confirmed, the only alternative is to apply for a visa at the US embassy or consulate.

What to do if your ESTA is refused?

An ESTA refusal is not inevitable. There are several solutions depending on the reason for the refusal. Here are the main options to consider:

• 🔎 Check the information provided: If the refusal is due to an error or incomplete information, you can submit a new application with the corrected details. 👉 Many rejections are due to simple inconsistencies in the ESTA form. For more details, see our comprehensive guide to common errors in the ESTA form.
• 🛂 Apply for a visitor visa: If you are eligible, apply for a B1/B2 visa at the US embassy or consulate. This visa covers the same reasons as ESTA (tourism, business, transit), but the procedure is longer and more expensive.
• 📩 Appeal the decision: If you believe the refusal is unjustified, you can contact US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). ⚠️ This appeal is rare and does not guarantee that you will obtain authorisation.

✅ Understanding the common reasons for ESTA denial, correcting your information, and considering a visa if necessary are the best solutions for continuing to travel to the United States.

📊 Summary table: Why is an ESTA denied and what can you do about it?

What advice should I follow to avoid ESTA refusal?

If you are planning to travel to the United States, it is important to complete your ESTA application correctly to avoid an ESTA refused status. Here are some tips to help you prevent common mistakes and the most frequent reasons for refusal:

• 🔎 Carefully check your information: When completing your ESTA application, be sure to carefully check all information before submitting it. This includes your personal information, passport, travel itinerary, and answers to the application questions. Any errors or inconsistencies in the information may result in a refusal.
• 📝 Be honest and transparent: US authorities carefully check the information provided in the ESTA application. Be honest and transparent in your answers to the application questions. Providing incorrect or misleading information may result in a refusal. It is therefore recommended that you answer the questions on the form as honestly as possible.
• 📂 Prepare your documents in advance: Before completing your ESTA application, ensure you have all the necessary information to hand, including your passport, flight details and addresses in the United States. This will help you to complete the application accurately and avoid any errors.
• ❌ Avoid common errors: Common errors in ESTA applications include typos, date errors and incomplete information. Carefully check all information before submitting your application.
• 🌐 Choose a reliable website: You can apply directly on the official US government website. However, using a recognised private provider allows you to have your data checked beforehand, which significantly reduces the risk of errors and therefore of ESTA refusal.

✅ By following these simple tips, you maximise your chances of quickly obtaining a valid ESTA authorisation to travel to the United States.

🌐 Which websites should you use to apply for ESTA to avoid rejection?

To obtain an ESTA authorisation and travel to the United States, it is essential to use a reliable website to avoid errors or an ESTA denial.

• 🏛 Official US government website: this is the go-to platform, simple and secure, but without verification of the data entered. Any error can lead to a refusal.
• 🤝 Recognised private providers: they offer online assistance, proofread your information and guide you through the process. This greatly reduces the risk of errors and therefore refusals.
• 🛂 Help in case of rejection: some providers analyse the reasons for rejection and advise on possible solutions (new application, visa, etc.).
• 📝 Simplified form: with a provider, you often benefit from a clearer interface, help with filling in the form and verification before validation.

👉 You can use the service provider we have selected on our website: it offers a clear form, personalised assistance and a complete check of your data before submission.

Can ESTA be refused in the case of dual nationality?

Yes, certain situations lead to ESTA refusal when a traveller has dual nationality. Here are the main cases:

• 🚫 Countries concerned: dual nationality with Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen → ESTA refused even if the other passport is eligible.
• ✈️ Recent travel: stay in one of these countries since February 2011 → high probability of ESTA refusal.
• 🇨🇺 Special case of Cuba: since 12 January 2021, Cuban dual nationals must apply for a US visa (ESTA is not accepted).
• 🔒 Security reasons: these restrictions are related to national security and result in increased controls.

👉 If your application is ESTA rejected due to dual nationality, the only alternative is to apply for a visa at the US embassy or consulate.

❓ ESTA approved then denied: Is this possible?

In principle, once your ESTA is approved, it remains valid for up to 2 years (or until your passport expires). However, it may be revoked after approval in certain situations:

• 🔒 Change in circumstances: new security data, criminal record, or immigration-related issues.
• ✈️ Travel to a sensitive country (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, etc.) after approval.
• 🛂 Enhanced screening upon arrival: ESTA does not guarantee entry; the final decision always rests with US immigration officials (CBP).
• 📑 Error in the application discovered after the fact → revocation of authorisation.

👉 If your ESTA is approved and then cancelled, you will need to submit a new application or apply for a US visa at the embassy.

💳 What to do if your ESTA payment is declined?

An ESTA payment may be declined for several reasons: expired card, exceeded limit, bank block or technical problem. Check your bank details, contact your bank and try another payment method if necessary.

👉 Find the complete guide in our dedicated article: ESTA payment impossible -> solutions.