Travellers applying for a U.S. travel authorisation may notice a small but important change. The ESTA application now requires closer attention to the selfie you upload, showing how identity checks are becoming stricter even before broader reforms are introduced.

Here’s what’s changing and why it matters if you plan to visit the United States soon.

What is ESTA?

ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization, allows travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries to enter the United States for tourism or business without applying for a traditional visa.

It is usually valid for short stays of up to 90 days. The process is online, quick, and commonly used by millions of travellers each year.

However, the system is evolving as the U.S. aims to strengthen identity verification and reduce fraud.

Selfie Upload Now Plays a Bigger Role

Since April 1, the ESTA portal treats the selfie upload step more seriously than before. Applicants now see a pop-up with clear instructions on how to take the photo. The system requires:

• Plain, light-coloured background
• No shadows or patterns
• Neutral facial expression
• Eyes open and clearly visible
• Full face shown directly to the camera
• A new photo that is different from the passport photo

The selfie is no longer just an extra image. It is now an important part of identity verification.

Second Step Helps Fix Incorrect Photos

If the selfie photo does not meet the requirements, the system shows another window explaining what needs to be corrected. Travellers may be asked to:

• Show head and shoulders clearly
• Remove glasses or accessories covering the face
• Avoid filters or edited images
• Use even lighting
• Upload a clearer photo

Instead of simply rejecting the image, the portal now guides users to upload a compliant selfie.

Still, applicants remain responsible for ensuring the photo meets the rules. Poor-quality images could lead to delays or even refusal.

Why the US is Making This Change

The stricter selfie rules align with plans already discussed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in late 2025. Authorities have pointed to:

• Low-quality images are uploaded to the website.
• Problems matching faces with passport photos.
• Attempts by fraudsters to bypass identity checks.

The U.S. has also highlighted the benefits of its mobile app, which allows live facial capture and stronger biometric verification.

The new instructions appear to be a step toward making the website process more similar to the mobile app experience.

Possible ESTA Changes Still Under Review

Other possible ESTA updates are still being discussed and have not yet been introduced. These may include:

• Disclosure of social media accounts from the past five years
• Additional personal or family information
• Expanded biometric checks
• Greater use of the mobile application

According to earlier timelines, any major new requirements are unlikely to begin before mid-2026.

ESTA Fee Slightly Increased

Alongside these updates, the cost of applying for ESTA has also been adjusted. From January 2026, travellers using the Visa Waiver Program must pay $40.27, up slightly from the previous $40 fee.

The increase reflects a routine inflation adjustment introduced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Why This Matters for Travellers Planning 2026 Trips

While the update may look minor, the selfie step could affect how smoothly an application is approved.

This becomes especially relevant as international travel demand is expected to rise ahead of major global events, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will bring millions of visitors to North America.

Travellers applying for ESTA should now treat the photo step carefully to avoid delays.

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