01/05/09
Visa Waiver Requirements Change
Visa Waiver Requirements are changing. By way of background, the Visa Waiver Program permits citizens of certain countries may travel to the U.S. without the need to apply for a visa at the U.S. Embassy if they are entering the U.S. for temporary tourism or for a very limited list of business purposes.
Beginning on January 12, 2009, Visa Waiver travelers must use an on-line “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” (ESTA) system before attempting to enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA on-line system gathers the same data which is currently requested on the Form I-94W Arrival/Departure Record. This data will be analyzed before the person seeks to enter the U.S. to determine travel eligibility and whether the traveler poses a law enforcement or security risk. A travel determination made under ESTA will remain valid for two years and may be used for multiple applications for admission, with a few exceptions.
Click here for access to the new on-line ESTA system.