Do I need a new ESTA if I get a new passport?
If you renew or replace your passport, your old ESTA becomes invalid. Here’s what you must know about ESTA renewal and new passport requirements.
Change of passport = reapply for ESTA.
Renew your ESTA as soon as you receive your new passport.
The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is required for travelers visiting the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. But what happens if you get a new passport? Many travelers wonder if they can still use their existing ESTA or if they must apply again. Since ESTA is directly linked to the passport number used during the application, a new passport usually means your old ESTA is no longer valid. This guide explains when you need a new ESTA, the renewal process, validity rules, and the common mistakes to avoid when traveling to the U.S. with a new passport.
📌 ESTA and new passport: Key points to remember
- ✅ ESTA is always linked to one passport number.
- 🔄 New passport = new ESTA application required.
- 🚫 ESTA cannot be transferred from an old passport to a new one.
- 🗓️ ESTA remains valid for 2 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
- ⚠️ Traveling with an ESTA linked to an old passport may cause boarding refusal.
The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is a mandatory electronic authorisation for visa-free travel to the United States.
To apply for an ESTA, UK travellers must:
When applying, the ESTA is directly linked to the passport used:
⚠️ All details must match exactly with your passport. Any discrepancy may result in denied boarding or entry.
ESTA and your passport are inseparable:
A traveller may need to change their passport in various situations: expiry of the current document, loss or theft, or early renewal before the expiry date. In these cases, it is important to understand the implications of this change on your already obtained ESTA.
Even if your personal information (name, date of birth, nationality) remains unchanged, a new passport is always issued with a new passport number.
💡 There is no “update” option to change a passport number: each new passport requires a fresh ESTA approval
If your new passport includes any changes (new number, different name after marriage or legal procedure, or other updated details):
👉 In summary: any passport change requires a new ESTA application. Even if your personal details remain identical, your passport number will change, making the previous ESTA unusable.
To summarise the key points about what happens to your ESTA when you get a new passport:
In addition to these points, here are some practical tips to avoid potential problems when travelling to the United States:
If you have changed your passport while your ESTA is still linked to the old document, you may wonder if you can travel with both. The answer is yes, in some cases, but strict rules apply to avoid problems when entering the United States.
The ESTA is always tied to the passport used in the application. If you obtain a new passport, your ESTA remains technically valid only with the old passport, meaning you must carry both documents.
✅ Here are the steps to follow:
💡 Yes, you can travel with both passports, but the most reliable option is to renew your ESTA as soon as you get a new passport. This makes your journey simpler, safer, and stress-free.
✅ Yes. It is mandatory to renew your ESTA after obtaining a new passport, even if the old authorisation is still valid.
📌 Why renew your ESTA?
⚠️ If you don’t renew your ESTA:
💡 Key takeaway:
As soon as you get a new passport, apply for a new ESTA. This is the only way to ensure smooth travel and avoid complications when entering the US.
Find out if your question has been answered in the list below
Yes. Even if your personal information (name, date of birth, nationality) remains the same, a new passport always has a new number. Since ESTA is tied to that number, your old authorisation becomes invalid. You must therefore submit a new ESTA application on the official website to ensure your entry is approved at boarding and upon arrival in the United States.
No. If your new passport includes any changes (new number, name after marriage, corrected civil status, etc.), your previous ESTA is automatically invalid. In this situation, you must apply for a new ESTA before travelling. Always make sure the passport details you enter match exactly, or you risk refusal of authorisation or even denial of boarding.
When applying for a new ESTA with a new passport, you only need to provide your passport details (number, issue date, expiry date). However, it is advisable to keep a copy of your old passport and any supporting documents (marriage certificate, name change decree, loss/theft declaration). These are not usually required during the online process, but they may be requested by authorities during verification.