ESTA & Entry
German citizens do not need a visa for the USA, but an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). This applies to tourist stays up to 90 days.
ESTA — Step by Step
- Application: Exclusively via the official website esta.cbp.dhs.gov — beware of expensive third-party sites!
- Cost: $21 (approx. €19), payable by credit card or PayPal.
- Duration: Approval usually within minutes to 72 hours. Still, apply at least 2 weeks before departure!
- Validity: 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first). Multiple entries possible.
- Required: Valid biometric passport (valid at least 6 months beyond the end of the trip), address of the first accommodation in the USA.
Entry at the Airport
Upon arrival in the USA, you go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP):
- Automated Passport Control (APC): At many airports, there are kiosks where you scan your passport, provide fingerprints, and have a photo taken. Faster than manned control.
- Global Entry: For frequent travelers ($100, valid for 5 years). Own counter, hardly any waiting time.
- Questions: The officer asks about purpose, length of stay, and accommodation. Short, honest answers suffice. No humor at the counter!
- Waiting Time: Expect 30–90 minutes upon entry, especially at JFK and LAX. Plan at least 3 hours for connecting domestic flights!
Customs Regulations
| Allowed | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Alcohol (21+ years!) | 1 liter |
| Cigarettes | 200 pieces |
| Gifts | up to $100 value |
| Cash (reporting requirement from) | $10,000 |
💡 Tipp
Save your ESTA confirmation as a PDF on your phone. Airlines often check the ESTA at check-in. Without a valid authorization, you will not be allowed to board.
Achtung
Apply for ESTA only through the official website esta.cbp.dhs.gov! There are dozens of fake sites charging $80–150. The actual fee is $21. Even babies and toddlers need their own ESTA!
