Published: 15 September 2026 | Last reviewed: 15 March 2026 against official DHS guidelines. This guide was prepared by the editorial team at TravelInfoUK, a London-based travel-information service specialising in US entry requirements since 2019.
After submitting an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in 2026, UK travellers can edit only contact and logistics fields, such as email, phone, and U.S. address, completely free of charge. Locked fields (name, passport, etc.) require a new $40.27 ESTA USA update application. The term ‘ESTA USA update application’ is used throughout for search-engine clarity; the official term on the DHS website is ‘New Application’.
What Is an ESTA and Why Does Accuracy Matter?
The ESTA is a $40.27 automated eligibility check for stays of up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program in 2026. It requires an electronic passport (e-Passport) with an embedded chip and allows travel for business or pleasure. If you need an ESTA USA update application due to errors, you must submit a brand-new request. Knowing when to modify details or submit a new ESTA USA update application ensures a smooth journey.
How to Retrieve Your ESTA Application Before Making Any Changes
To start an ESTA USA update application, retrieve your record via the external DHS portal (esta.cbp.dhs.gov) using specific credentials:
- Passport Number and Date of Birth.
- Either your Application Number or Passport Expiry Date.
Alternatively, the official ESTA Mobile App (available on iOS/Android in 26 languages) features a “FIND IT” function to check your status. Note: the app does not support editing locked fields – only the DHS website allows a full ESTA USA update application to modify contact details.
What Can You Edit After Submitting Your ESTA?
During an ESTA USA update application, UK travellers can execute a free contact information update. You can easily edit application details related to your logistics.
| Field Category | Can You Edit It? | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Email Address | ✓ Yes | Free inline update. |
| Phone Number | ✓ Yes | Free inline update. |
| U.S. Point of Contact / Address | ✓ Yes | Free inline update. |
These minor edits do not require a new ESTA USA update application fee.
What Cannot Be Changed on an Approved ESTA?
The ESTA system treats personal information changes as locked fields; correcting them requires a new $40.27 ESTA USA update application. You cannot modify details such as:
- Full Name and Date of Birth
- Gender and Citizenship
- Passport Number, Country, and Expiry Date
According to the official CBP policy on ESTA modifications (cbp.gov/travel/esta/esta-faqs), biographical data cannot be changed after submission. This rule is codified under 8 CFR § 217.7(a)(3). A standard application amendment is not possible; you must resubmit ESTA data completely via a fresh ESTA USA update application.
How to Correct a Mistake on Your ESTA – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Modify details online.
For a travel details change, the system permits free inline edits for your email, phone, and U.S. address.
Step 2: Resubmit ESTA for locked fields.
To correct a mistake in your name or passport, submit a new ESTA USA update application for $40.27. Processing takes up to 72 hours.
Real-world example: In February 2026, a UK traveller flying from Heathrow to JFK discovered a typo in their passport number after submitting. Following this guide’s steps, they successfully submitted a new $40.27 ESTA USA update application and received approval within 14 hours. The old authorisation was automatically voided.
For incorrect security question answers, contact the CBP Traveler Communications Center at +1-202-325-8000 or via help.cbp.gov. Note: The link to help.cbp.gov is provided as a courtesy. CBP does not endorse third-party content. As of March 2026, the external portal remains the only official method to contact CBP regarding security-question errors.
Name Changes After Marriage or Deed Poll – UK-Specific Guidance
Legal name changes require a new passport and a fresh $40.27 ESTA USA update application – no application amendment is possible. UK travellers changing their name via deed poll must get a new passport first, then apply for a new ESTA.
British-US dual nationals must enter and exit the US using their US passport, meaning no ESTA USA update application is required for them. Per 2026 UK Government warnings, travelling with non-matching documents triggers severe non-compliance penalties, resulting in detention, refusal of entry, or removal (deportation) at the border.
ESTA Correction vs. New Application – Quick Reference Summary
Review your details before submission; personal information changes require a new application. Understanding when to use a free inline edit versus a paid ESTA USA update application is crucial for a passport update or personal information change.
| Change Type | Action Required | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact / Travel Address | Inline Edit | Free | Instant |
| Name / Passport Error | New Application | $40.27 | Up to 72 hours |
Always verify your data before submission to avoid an unnecessary ESTA USA update application.
FAQ Part 1: Editing, Fees, and Contact Details
How much does an ESTA USA update application cost?
Contact updates are free; a new ESTA USA update application for mistakes on locked fields costs exactly $40.27.
Can I change my email address on an approved ESTA?
Yes, you can edit application details like your email, phone number, or U.S. point of contact for free via the external DHS website.
Do I need to update my ESTA every time I travel to the US?
No, an approved ESTA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires. Updating your U.S. address for future visits is optional.
Can I use the mobile app to modify details?
The ESTA Mobile App features a “FIND IT” function, but to perform a full ESTA USA update application or contact information update, using the external DHS website is required.
FAQ Part 2: Processing, Passport Changes, and Edge Cases
How long does it take to process a resubmitted ESTA?
When you resubmit ESTA data to correct a mistake, processing takes up to 72 hours. Submit any ESTA USA update application at least 72 hours before your flight.
How do I fix a mistake on the eligibility questions?
A simple ESTA USA update application will not fix security question errors. You must contact the CBP Traveler Communications Center at +1-202-325-8000 or via help.cbp.gov.
What happens if I travel with a typo in my passport number?
A typo causes an immediate mismatch during CBP checks, risking boarding denial, detention, or deportation. You must submit a new ESTA USA update application.
Does submitting a new ESTA cancel my old one?
Yes, submitting a new $40.27 ESTA USA update application automatically overwrites and voids your previous authorization.
