The ESTA is definitely a curious hoop jump that feels like applying for a visa: 
<a href="https:&#x2F;&#x2F;en.wikipedia.org&#x2F;wiki&#x2F;Visa_Waiver_Program#Electronic_System_for_Travel_Authorization_.28ESTA.29" rel="nofollow">https:&#x2F;&#x2F;en.wikipedia.org&#x2F;wiki&#x2F;Visa_Waiver_Program#Electronic...</a>