ESTA to the USA from Germany: How to obtain travel authorization without a visa

When planning a trip to the United States, it is important to understand entry formalities in advance. For short-term visits, citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries only need an electronic travel authorization — ESTA. Below, we explain in detail how the ESTA application process from Germany works, what documents are required, and what to pay attention to in order to avoid refusal. Ready? Let’s begin.

What is ESTA used for?

ESTA is not a visa, but an electronic authorization to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It is strictly intended for limited purposes, namely:

• tourism and leisure travel;

• short-term business visits (negotiations, conferences, meetings);

• transit through the United States to a third country;

• short-term medical treatment without long-term medical supervision.

It is important to note that ESTA does not grant the right to work, study, or reside long-term in the United States. The maximum period  staying in the US under ESTA is up to 90 days per trip, without the possibility of extension or status change within the country.

Who can apply for ESTA in Germany?

The following individuals can apply for ESTA for the USA online from Germany:

• citizens of Germany;

• residents of other Visa Waiver Program countries legally staying in Germany;

• travelers without immigration intent.

There are no age restrictions — ESTA is required even for children, including infants. A separate application must be submitted for each traveler.

Where can you apply for ESTA in Germany?

Formally, ESTA applications from Germany are submitted online. However, there are several options:

• Independently via the official CBP website. Suitable for those confident in English and familiar with the application nuances.

• Through a visa agency. In practice, this option often reduces the risk of refusal. Specialists verify data, correctly formulate answers, and consider migration-related factors.

On our website, you can apply for ESTA remotely, regardless of your city of residence — Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, etc.

What documents are required to apply for ESTA in Germany?

The list of documents for ESTA in the US from Germany includes:

• a valid biometric passport;

• a working email address;

• a bank card for payment;

• contact details in Germany;

• information about previous trips to the USA (if any);

• details of your employer or occupation.

It is important to understand that even a single typo in your passport number may lead to automatic refusal without the right to correction.

ESTA application process and processing time in Germany

The procedure for applying for ESTA in the US from Germany is as follows:

1. Completing the electronic application form

2. Data verification and payment

3. Automatic processing by the US DHS system

4. Receiving the result via email

In most cases, ESTA approval in Germany takes between a few minutes and 72 hours. However, in rare situations, processing may take longer, especially if the system sends the application for additional verification.

That is why we recommend applying at least 7–10 days before your intended departure date.

ESTA cost and validity

The total ESTA cost from Germany consists of:

• US government fee — 21 USD;

• agency service fee (if using professional assistance).

ESTA is valid for 2 years from the date of approval or until passport expiration — whichever comes first.

During this period, multiple trips are permitted, provided the 90-day stay rule is respected.

Main reasons for refusal

According to statistics, approximately 3–5% of applications are denied ESTA in Germany for the following reasons:

• errors or inaccuracies in the application form;

• previous violations of US visa regulations;

• concealment of prior visa refusals;

• visits to countries with increased migration risk;

• suspicion of immigration intent.

After an ESTA refusal, reapplication is generally pointless — in such cases, a US tourist visa is required.

Why choose us?

Our visa agency specializes in US visas and travel authorizations and works regularly with applicants from Germany. Our advantages include:

• experience with thousands of ESTA and US visa cases;

• manual verification of each application before submission;

• minimized risk of refusal;

• consultations in Russian, English, and German;

• transparent pricing with no hidden fees.