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Esta Application via Website / Ios APP

We are looking to apply for our ESTA's.

Does anyone know if you complete the application on a desktop for example, can you access the application once completed on their APP whether that be Android or IOS or does it all have to be done via the APP?

TIA

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application can be completed either via a desktop browser on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website or through the mobile app, but it is important to understand how access works across devices.

Key points about ESTA applications and access:

  • If you complete an ESTA application on the official CBP website using a desktop or laptop, the information you enter is submitted directly to the U.S. government’s system. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation number, which is necessary for checking the status or updating the application.
  • The official CBP ESTA mobile app (available for iOS and Android) does not sync automatically with applications submitted via the desktop website. This means you cannot log into the app and access an application that was originally submitted on a desktop unless you manually enter the confirmation number and personal details to retrieve the status.
  • The app can be used independently to submit a new application, check status, or update certain information. However, it functions more as a convenient access point rather than a cross-device synchronization tool.

Practical advice:

  • Complete the application on a desktop for easier typing and reference of documents. Make sure to save your confirmation number securely.
  • If you wish to check your ESTA status on a mobile device, you can use the app by entering the confirmation number and passport details.
  • Do not rely on the app to automatically detect or pull in a previously submitted desktop application; always keep the confirmation number handy.

In summary, you can use either platform, but they do not fully integrate. The desktop is suitable for initial application completion, while the app is useful for status checks and updates once you have the confirmation information.

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