What if my ESTA application is denied?

The response to an ESTA application will be made within a maximum of 72 hours. Whether the answer is positive or negative, an opinion will be issued regarding your file. What to do if your application is denied:

What if there is a non-penalizing reason for denial?

When your ESTA application is denied, you have the option of applying to the Travel Redress Inquiry Program (TRIP). This service, which is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is the only one able to provide you with the reasons for the refusal. If you are informed that you have made a typing error or entered incorrect information that you are able to correct, you may submit a new ESTA application. If you still receive a rejection after checking your information, there may be another reason for rejection. It will therefore be impossible for you to obtain an ESTA.

What to do in case of a final refusal?

If your ESTA application is denied, you can still travel to the United States by other means: the Green Card or the USA tourist visa.

An ESTA is a simplified procedure that allows you to be exempted from a visa for tourist or business trips not exceeding 90 days. It is intended for nationals of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. Obtaining an ESTA denial is not binding for a visa application. Consider the purpose of the trip and its nature carefully to determine which visa is best for you. For example:

• The B1 business visa for a business trip;
• A F1 student visa;
• Or a B2 tourist visa for a long term vacation.

This list is obviously not exhaustive, there are many different visas available to meet the greatest number of possible situations. However, the process is longer and more expensive than an ESTA.