Can an ESTA be used for multiple entries to the United States?

Updated: Aug 24, 2023  | Tags: Multiple Entry ESTA, ESTA Rules, ESTA Application

Introduction

An ESTA can be used for multiple entries into the United States. However, approved ESTA applicants should be aware that Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has the right to deny any traveler admission at the U.S. border. Thus, if the CBP officer is led to believe that an ESTA applicant is abusing the conditions of the Visa Waiver Program, then the CBP border officials would have the right to deny the ESTA applicant entry into the United States.

Can an ESTA be used for multiple entries to the United States?

Is there a limit to the number of times I can enter the United States in a 90 day period?

No, there is no limit on the number of times you can enter the United States with an ESTA. However, if CBP border officials suspect dishonesty or any activities of suspicious nature, they have the right to deny an approved ESTA applicant entry into the United States.

I already spent 90 days in the U.S. on my last visit(s), can I go again in the next few weeks or months?

CBP may suspect an ESTA applicant is attempting to breach the conditions of the Visa Waiver Program and thus deny entry if an ESTA applicant is repeatedly visiting the United States and has already exceeded the 90 day limit on a previous U.S. travels over the past several months. If a traveler has already spent 90 days in the United States and is hoping to spend more time in the United States in the upcoming future, he / she should apply for a B-2 Tourist Visa, which would permit entry to the United States for visits of up to six months. Should the traveler wish to spend more time in the United States beyond the times permitted by ESTA, B-1 Business Visa or B-2 Tourist Visa, it is recommended they seek the advice of an immigration attorney to learn about options for other nonimmigrant and immigrant visas.

If I get a new passport will that reset the 90 day period?

No, getting a new passport will not reset your 90 day period. Your passport number history is linked to your identity and CBP can trace the total number of days you have spent in the United States and nearby countries, islands or territories.

Other considerations when entering the U.S. multiple times on an ESTA

Type of Travel

ESTA is intended for short-term visits for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes. It's not suitable for long-term stays, employment, or academic study.

Changes in Circumstances

If your personal circumstances change (e.g., a new passport, change in name, change in gender, or change in eligibility status like criminal convictions), you will need to apply for a new ESTA.

Arrival from Adjacent Territories

Trips to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean won't "reset" the 90-day count if you're coming back into the U.S. The 90 days includes any time spent in Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands within the same journey.

Inspecting Officer's Discretion

Entry and the length of stay are ultimately determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry. An ESTA does not guarantee admission into the U.S.

Overstays

If you overstay the period granted to you by the CBP, you may become ineligible for future visa-free travel to the U.S.

Subsequent Visits

While ESTA allows for multiple entries, frequent visits might raise concerns about your intentions, and you could be subjected to additional scrutiny upon arrival.

When in doubt, check your ESTA Status online

Always check the validity of your ESTA before planning subsequent trips to the U.S. to ensure that it is still valid and has not expired.

Conclusion

An ESTA can be used for multiple entries into the United States. Should an individual find themselves in a situation where they wish to visit the United States repeatedly beyond the 90 days permitted by ESTA, then a B-1 Business Visa or B-2 Tourist Visa may be a more suitable alternative. Otherwise, travelers can seek out other nonimmigrant or immigrant visa options.