ESTA for Czech Republic Citizens

The Czech Republic became members of the Visa Waiver Program in 2008. Due to their membership, citizens from Czech Republic are now able to take advantage of applying for an ESTA as opposed to applying for a US Visa.

Benefits of Applying for ESTA for Czech Republic Citizens

As members of the Visa Waiver Program, citizens of the Czech Republic are able to apply for an ESTA as an easier alternative to applying for a US Visa. There are many different benefits of this, with one being the much faster processing times for an ESTA compared to a visa.

The processing is much faster because it is all done electronically, there is no need for the applicant to visit the US embassy for an interview, which is required when applying for a US Visa. This makes it a very beneficial option for citizens of the Czech Republic wanting to visit the US for business meetings, conferences and tourism purposes.

Another great benefit of using an ESTA is that you are able to use the same one for multiple visits to the US whilst it stays valid. The ESTA will usually be valid for two years, or until the linked passport expires (which ever date is soonest).

The ESTA form is much quicker to complete than the US Visa form, which is another definite benefit. Usually the ESTA form will take around 10 minutes to complete as long as you have all the information ready.

How Czech Republic Citizens Can Apply for ESTA

It is relatively easy for a citizen of the Czech Republic to apply for an ESTA, they simply require a valid biometric passport, valid email address and a card to make the application fee payment with. The whole process of application is completed digitally and the applicant just needs to complete the short online form. The questions in the application form include name, address, date of birth, medical information and criminal convictions.

Once the form has been completed it is very important that the applicant re-checks everything they have filled in, as even a minor error can result in the ESTA application being declined and potentially disrupting their travel plans. When all of the details have been checked, the applicant pays the application fee and submit the application. The next step will be receiving an email confirming whether the application has been approved or not.

Passport Requirements for the US ESTA

ESTA Approval Time

The average ESTA approval time is less than 24 hours. In most cases, applicants will receive their travel authorizations quickly. However, if an additional review of the application is necessary, the processing time may take up to 72 hours.

How Much in Advance Should You Apply for an ESTA?

It is strongly advised to apply for ESTA immediately after you know your travel date, or at least three days before the travel to avoid any potential problems.

How Long Does ESTA Authorisation Last?

From the date when it is approved, ESTA is valid for two years. Still, travelers need to know that if the passport expires before ESTA, the travel authorization automatically becomes invalid.

Updating Your ESTA: When Do Czech Republic Travelers Need a New ESTA?

There are some situations in which Czech Republic travelers will need a new ESTA. You will need to apply for a new travel authorization in the following circumstances:

ESTA Ineligibility: What Travelers Don’t Qualify?

Different travelers do not meet the requirements for obtaining ESTA approval. This includes:

What to do if ESTA is Declined

In some situations, the ESTA may be declined, either because there has been an error when completing the form or because the applicant has not passed the criteria required. If the ESTA has been declined due to an error when the applicant filled in the form then they can resubmit another form and make another payment for the application fee. If the ESTA has been declined because the applicant has not passed the criteria then they may be able to obtain a US Visa instead. To start the process of applying for US Visa the applicant should complete a DS 160 form and then organise an interview at the US embassy.

US Embassy Address in Czech Republic

U.S. Embassy Prague
Tržiště 15
118 01 Praha 1 - Malá Strana
Czech Republic

Differences Between an American ESTA and US Visa

ESTA is less expensive and easier to get than a US visa. Besides that, there are a few more significant differences:

The Following Czech Republic Nationals May Not Travel Using the VWP and Require a Visa

Do Dual Citizens of the United States or Canada Need an ESTA?

Dual Citizens of the Czech Republic and the United States or Canada do not need to get an ESTA. All that they have to do is use their USA or Canada passport when traveling to the USA.

US ESTA for Czech Republic Minors

Children also must have an ESTA to enter the USA. Parents or legal guardians may apply on behalf of their kids in the same way as they do for themselves.

If you’re traveling with more than one child you can submit a group applications for all of them.

Can I Apply for My Family or Friends?

You can apply for your family or friends for the ESTA. There is the possibility to submit a group application for up to 50 people. Each individual is mandatory to meet the requirements for the ESTA and provide their own personal information, including passport details and travel plans.

The individual who made the group application will also need to provide their own contact information and payment details for the group.

Benefits of ESTA for Czech Republic Citizens:

I Want to Learn More About ESTA, What Should I Do?

If you want to learn more regarding ESTA you can visit our ESTA requirements page and check out our detailed FAQs about ESTA.