{"id":969,"date":"2026-04-01T19:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-01T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usestavisa.com\/?p=969"},"modified":"2026-04-14T12:25:06","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T12:25:06","slug":"esta-for-families-children","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usestavisa.com\/sk\/esta-for-families-children\/","title":{"rendered":"ESTA for Families: Applying with Children in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Applying for ESTA for families with children requires careful planning \u2014 every family member, including infants, needs their own individual ESTA authorization.<\/strong> This guide walks you through the group application process, requirements for minors, and practical tips for hassle-free family travel to the USA in 2026.<\/p>\n

The ESTA group application feature on the official CBP website<\/a> allows you to submit multiple applications in one session, making it easier for families. However, each person \u2014 from newborns to grandparents \u2014 needs their own ESTA authorization<\/a> and their own biometric passport.<\/p>\n

ESTA Requirements for Family Members<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Family Member<\/th>\nESTA Required?<\/th>\nOwn Passport Needed?<\/th>\nCost<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Adults (18+)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes (biometric)<\/td>\n$40.27 each<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Teenagers (13-17)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes (biometric)<\/td>\n$40.27 each<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Children (2-12)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes (biometric)<\/td>\n$40.27 each<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Infants (0-1)<\/td>\nYes<\/td>\nYes (biometric)<\/td>\n$40.27 each<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Yes, even babies need ESTA! There are no age exemptions. A family of four will pay $161.08 in ESTA fees. Each child must have their own valid biometric passport \u2014 they cannot be included on a parent’s passport.<\/p>\n\n

How to Apply for ESTA as a Family: Step-by-Step<\/h2>\n\n
\"Family<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Gather All Passports<\/h3>\n

Collect biometric passports for every family member. Check that all passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned US departure date. Ensure the electronic chip in each passport is functional.<\/p>\n\n

Step 2: Use the Group Application Feature<\/h3>\n

On esta.cbp.dhs.gov<\/a>, select “New Application” \u2192 “Group Application.” This allows you to add multiple travelers under one group and track all applications together. You’ll get a group application number for easy reference.<\/p>\n

Step 3: Fill in Each Person’s Information<\/h3>\n

Complete a separate application for each family member. For children, a parent fills in the information. Key notes:<\/p>\n