Do you need to reapply for ESTA if you make a mistake?

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an online system created by the US government that allows citizens of eligible countries to travel to the United States without a visa. This travel authorization is mandatory and a key step in entering the USA. However, many travelers encounter the same issue: errors in the ESTA form. A small typo, incorrect information, or a wrong answer to a security question can create doubts about whether you need to reapply for ESTA or simply correct the mistake. In this guide, we explain exactly when a new ESTA application is required and when a correction is enough. You will also learn about the most common mistakes on the ESTA form and the best way to fix them to ensure a smooth trip to the United States.

What should I do if I make a mistake on the ESTA form?

• Common errors : Wrong information, incorrect answers, missing fields, typos.
• Impact of errors: Rejection of ESTA, delays, inability to board, additional expenses.
• Solutions: Check carefully, answer precisely, use a spellchecker, amend the application if you make a mistake.
• Application rejected: Reapply after correction or contact ESTA customer service, visa in case of emergency.
• Prevention: Fill in the form in a quiet place, read it carefully, ask for it to be proofread, keep a copy.

Understanding the types of mistake on the ESTA form

When you fill in the ESTA form, it is possible to make various mistakes. It is essential to understand the distinction between minor and major mistakes in order to determine whether a new ESTA application is necessary.

• Minor mistakes usually involve small spelling errors, date inaccuracies, or other non-essential details. While they may seem trivial, it’s always safer to correct them to avoid confusion or issues when traveling to the United States. In most cases, these errors can be fixed without reapplying for ESTA.
• Major mistakes relate to crucial details such as your name, gender, nationality, or passport number. Because they directly affect your travel authorization, it is strongly recommended to submit a new ESTA application to ensure all information is accurate.

It is important to note that major mistakes are not limited to personal information. Mistakes in the answers to questions relating to security, criminal history, contagious diseases, etc., can also be considered major errors. This information is essential for assessing your eligibility to enter the United States, so it is crucial to provide it correctly.

When is it necessary to reapply for your ESTA?

Now that we understand the difference between minor and major mistakes in the ESTA form, let’s examine the cases where you should submit a new application.

• ✍️ Major mistakes in personal details: Errors in your name, gender, nationality, passport number, or other key data require a new ESTA application. Such mistakes can block your entry or cause issues at security checks.
• 🔒 Errors in security questions: Incorrect or missing answers about criminal history, contagious diseases, or security-related topics must be corrected by reapplying. Wrong answers can have serious consequences, including refusal of entry.
• ✈️ Significant changes in travel plans: If your destination, purpose of travel, or length of stay has changed since your first application, submit a new ESTA to ensure your information is up to date.

When can you simply correct minor mistakes?

Now that we've clarified the situations that require a complete overhaul of your ESTA application, let's look at the steps you can take to correct minor mistakes without having to start the whole process again.

• Visit the official website of the US Department of Homeland Security: When you identify a minor mistake in your ESTA application, the first step is to consult the official website of the US Department of Homeland Security. This site provides detailed information on correction procedures and guidelines to follow. Make sure you use the most up-to-date information to avoid any confusion.
• Identify the online provider or ESTA service used: If you submitted your ESTA application via an online provider or ESTA service, identify the provider you used. Check their website or contact their customer service for specific instructions on how to correct minor mistakes. Each service provider may have slightly different procedures, so it is important to follow their instructions.
• Contact the provider or customer service: Once you have identified the ESTA provider or service you are using, contact them directly to explain the nature of the minor mistakes you wish to correct. Online providers and ESTA services are generally equipped to help you rectify these mistakes. They will be able to guide you through the steps to follow and provide you with the information you need to make the appropriate corrections.
• Submit corrections using the appropriate procedures: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the service provider or customer service to submit corrections. This may involve completing an online correction form, providing supporting documentation or updating incorrect information in your existing application. Please ensure that you follow the correct procedures and provide accurate information when submitting corrections.

By following these steps, you will be able to correct minor mistakes in your ESTA application without having to go through the whole process again. However, be sure to act quickly to rectify any mistakes and to respect the deadlines indicated by the ESTA provider or service. This will ensure that you receive an accurate and up-to-date ESTA application that complies with the requirements for travel to the United States.

What are the most common mistakes when filling in the ESTA form?

Some of the most common mistakes made when filling in the ESTA application form include :

• Incorrect personal details:
  • Typing errors in the name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, etc.
  • Discrepancies between the information entered and that shown on official documents.
• Errors on eligibility questions:
  • Not correctly answering questions about criminal history, contagious diseases, refused stays in the United States, etc.
  • Failure to answer certain questions.
• Incorrect choice of answers:
  • Not selecting the correct option for binary questions (yes/no).
  • Inconsistent choices between the answers given.
• Omission of compulsory fields:
  • Not filling in all the fields required in the form.
  • Leaving entire fields blank.
• Typing and spelling errors:
  • Errors in place names, dates, etc.
  • Incorrect use of upper and lower case letters.

When is it necessary to reapply for an ESTA following an error?

It is necessary to reapply for an ESTA following an error in the following cases:

• If you have made a mistake in your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, nationality or passport number.
• If you answered an eligibility question incorrectly, such as criminal history, contagious diseases or refused stays in the United States.
• If you have chosen the wrong answer to a binary question (yes/no) or if your answers are inconsistent.
• If you have omitted to fill in a required field on the form.

In the event of a minor error, such as a typo in your name, you can wait 24 hours and submit a new application.

However, if the error is more significant, it is preferable to submit a new application immediately.