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📸 New ESTA Rule: The U.S. now requires travelers from 42 Visa Waiver Program countries to upload a passport-style selfie when applying for ESTA online.
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🔐 Enhanced Security: This measure aims to strengthen identity verification and prevent fraud, aligning the ESTA website with its mobile app.
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🌍 Global Trend: The move reflects a growing global trend of using biometric data to improve border security, especially for visa-free travel scenarios.
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📷 Selfie Guidelines: Ensure full-face visibility with head and shoulders only, a plain, light-colored background, and no sunglasses, hats, or masks.
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🚫 No Filters: Avoid using filters or heavy editing to ensure the photo meets official requirements.
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🧾 Reusing Photos: Do not reuse your passport photo; doing so may lead to application cancellation.
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💰 Application Fee: The ESTA application fee is $21 per person, though a possible fee hike may be on the horizon.
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⏱️ Processing Time: Apply at least 72 hours before departure; most get approval within minutes or hours.
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🔄 Validity: Approved ESTAs are valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
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🌐 Multiple Entries: Travel to the U.S. multiple times without reapplying, as long as each stay is under 90 days.
Ready for the Next Step? Email us at visa@gogpl.in or visit www.greenoutdoors.in for the latest updates!