The US Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection have announced that the Electronic System for Travel Authorization fee will increase on October 16, 2026. The new rate of $40.62 represents a 35-cent rise from the current $40.27. This change affects visa-exempt travellers heading to the US, including those from Ghana. The adjustment is the fourth change to the fee in just over a year.
The ESTA fee increase is tied to an annual inflation adjustment mechanism introduced under American HR-1 legislation. The US Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers grew by 3.36% between July 2025 and July 2026, contributing to the fee hike. The ESTA charge consists of three components: a fixed $17 fee, a $13 charge, and an administrative fee to run the digital system. Only the administrative fee is being revised, climbing from $10.27 to $10.62.
For applicants whose ESTA requests are declined, the cost will also be $10.62. A family of four submitting separate applications will pay a combined $1.40 more than before. Those wishing to apply at the current rate of $40.27 have until October 15, 2026, to do so. Existing US ESTA holders are unaffected and will not need to reapply or make any additional payment.
The upcoming adjustment is part of a broader set of changes to US border programmes. The Electronic Visa Update System, used by Chinese nationals holding 10-year B-1 or B-2 visas, will see its fee rise by $1 to $31.75. The temporary immigration parole application fee will increase from $1,020 to $1,050. However, the Form I-94 charge at land border crossings remains at $30.
The ESTA remains a compulsory requirement for citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Programme countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and most of Europe. Authorisation must be secured before travel, though final entry is ultimately decided by border officials upon arrival. US authorities encourage travellers to apply for ESTA as early as possible to avoid any last-minute complications.
In related news, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has named five disciplines under which foreign nationals can pursue an extraordinary ability Green Card. The EB-1A pathway allows qualified individuals to self-petition without securing a US job offer first. Approved applicants can also extend legal status to their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age.
The changes to US border programmes, including the ESTA fee increase, are designed to ensure the continued security and efficiency of US immigration processes. Travellers are advised to stay informed about the latest requirements and fees to avoid any disruptions to their travel plans. The US government will continue to monitor and adjust fees as necessary to reflect changing economic conditions.
Key points
- The US ESTA fee for visa-exempt travellers will rise to $40.62 on October 16, 2026.
- The fee increase is tied to an annual inflation adjustment mechanism under American HR-1 legislation.
- Existing US ESTA holders are unaffected by the fee change and do not need to reapply.
