29/01/2026
Travelling to the USA? Quick heads-up ๐บ๐ธ
Thereโs been a quiet change to the ESTA process thatโs catching people out โ even travellers whoโve been approved before.
Some previously approved ESTAs are now being cancelled if the photo used wasnโt taken live at the time of application.
๐ธ What this means:
You must upload a current selfie.
Using a scanned passport photo or an older image could invalidate your ESTA โ sometimes without notice.
Why it matters:
โ No ESTA = no boarding
๐ข Cruise itineraries with U.S. ports are affected too
โ๏ธ Use the official ESTA app
โ๏ธ Take a clear, live selfie
โ๏ธ Check your ESTA again before you travel
โ๏ธ Reapply straight away if needed
โ๏ธ Always use the official Customs and Border Protection website
Save this if youโre heading to the States โจ