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As from the 12 January 2009,
anyone travelling to the US from the UK, will need to apply online for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel
Authorization) in order to be entitled to enter the US. You will no longer be able to travel using the current visa waiver program on board the aircraft. You must apply for an ESTA as soon as possible, please note the current regulations regarding criminal records either current or spent still apply. For more information regarding this please read below and use the links
provided.
US Visa waiver
program moves online
In a major change to the United States visa waiver program (VWP), UK citizens will need to apply online and in advance of travelling from January 12, 2009.
Once approved, an ESTA is valid for multiple entries over two years – or until the holder’s passport expires.
US authorities are keen to highlight the fact that the information required of passengers is no different to that on the current I94 form and that, in the vast majority of cases, a message indicating
authorization to travel – or not – will be instant.
Those planning to travel to the US are encouraged to apply for authorization
as far in advance as possible and no later than 72 hours before travelling, although “there will be accommodations for those flying at the last minute or in emergencies”.
The ESTA itself is an electronic authorization matched to a passport – rather than a physical endorsement or certificate – and can be applied for even without the passenger knowing their exact travel and destination details. Those in possession of an ESTA should update their travel details (via the same website) for each subsequent journey to the US during its two-year validity.
For further details please see the links below
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