How long does it take to get ESTAS

[stephensmum]

We are waiting for Stephens passport returning before we can get our ESTAS. Just wondering if these are quickly obtained. We last had them for our hol in 2010.

 

[chmurf]

most of the time you get your approval straight away once you complete the form on the website

sometimes your approval will be "pending" it might be due to some kind of delay from the webserver.
DW had her approval pending, it went to "approved" a few minutes later when we checked again

So if everything goes well it's instantaneous

sometimes you may have to wait up to 24 or 48/72 hours.

If it takes longer, then there's a problem with your application

ETA : from CBP website

In most cases, ESTA provides an almost immediate determination of eligibility for travel under the VWP. There are three types of responses to an ESTA application: Authorization Approved, Authorization Pending and Travel Not Authorized. Applicants who receive an approval are authorized to travel to the United States under the VWP. Applicants who receive an Authorization Pending response will need to check the website for updates within 72 hours to receive a final response. Applicants whose ESTA applications are denied will be referred to the Travel Information web site for information on how to apply for a visa to travel to the United States.

 

[flortlebap]

Mine was instant

 

[wayneg]

Did ours a couple of week back, all 3 were instant but some do take a few hours.

 

[wilma-bride]

Sharon, I did ours a couple of weeks ago. Both of them were 'pending' but had been approved when we checked a few hours later.

 

[stephensmum]

Thanks everyone, thats a relief.