New York for the holidays,
with the new ESTA fee
What changed, who needs to re-apply (most don't) — and where to stay for a five-star December.
This guide is for Visa Waiver Program travelers planning a December trip to New York. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says its system update to collect a new ESTA fee is scheduled to be effective on October 16, 2026, and that new applications are charged $40.62 per application. If you already hold a valid, approved ESTA, you do not need to re-apply — you pay the new fee only when you apply again. ESTA authorizations are valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and DHS recommends applying when you make your travel plans. Below: the details, and where to stay for a five-star New York holiday.
What changed with the ESTA fee?
On its official ESTA FAQ, CBP states that the systems update to collect the new fee amount is scheduled to be effective on October 16, 2026, and that when you apply after your current ESTA's validity ends you will be charged the new fee of $40.62 per application.
Already approved? CBP says that if you already have a valid, approved ESTA, you do not need to re-apply.
How long is an ESTA valid and when should I apply?
- Validity: unless revoked, two years from the date of authorization, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.
- When to apply: DHS recommends submitting when travel plans are made. Don't leave it to the last days before a holiday flight.
- Time to complete: CBP estimates the application takes about 23 minutes on average.
- Official site: apply only at esta.cbp.dhs.gov or CBP's official app.
Tip: if your passport expires within two years, your ESTA ends with it — renewing your passport means a new ESTA (and the new fee).
Why is December a special time in New York?
The city's holiday season is famous: the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating, elaborate Fifth Avenue window displays, holiday markets and New Year's Eve in Times Square. Hotels near Central Park and Fifth Avenue fill quickly for the weeks around Christmas and New Year, so book early.
Where to stay in New York for the holidays
- Central Park South and the Upper East Side — park views and classic grand hotels near the Met and Madison Avenue boutiques.
- Midtown and Fifth Avenue — walk to Rockefeller Center, the holiday windows and Broadway.
- Downtown, SoHo and Tribeca — boutique luxury, galleries and dining.
- Hudson Yards — new towers with skyline views and easy access to the High Line.
Where this information comes from
We checked these official pages on November 8, 2026. Rules can change, so please confirm before you travel:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection — Official ESTA FAQ (fee increase, validity, when to apply)
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection — ESTA overview
🏨 Five-star hotels in New York (live Agoda rates) (14)
Five-star only, ranked by nightly price. Live Agoda rates for 2 adults, taxes and fees included, checked 2026-11-08 — confirm the live rate on Agoda.
🗽 Where to stay in New York
🎄 Holiday moments worth planning around
❓ Frequently asked questions
How much is ESTA now?
CBP's official FAQ says new applications are charged $40.62 per application, with the system update to collect the new fee scheduled to be effective on October 16, 2026.
Do I need to re-apply for ESTA because of the fee increase?
No. CBP says if you already have a valid, approved ESTA you do not need to re-apply; you pay the new fee when you apply again after it expires.
How long is an ESTA valid?
Unless revoked, two years from the date of authorization, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
When should I apply for ESTA?
DHS recommends applying when you make your travel plans.
Where is the best area to stay in New York at Christmas?
Central Park South and Midtown/Fifth Avenue for the classic holiday sights; SoHo and Tribeca for boutique luxury downtown.
Some links are Agoda affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Hotel rates were checked on Agoda and change often. ESTA details are summarized from CBP's official pages as of November 8, 2026 — please confirm before you travel.