U.S. – Reminder of New Visa Rules to Enter America

If you are heading for America please make sure that Lady Liberty has no reason to hold up a STOP sign to prevent your entry.   It seems that many people are still unaware, or confused, about the new entry requirements for the U.S. which were introduced in January 2009. 

The new rules apply to British passport holders and others travelling to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) for purposes which include: general tourism, travelling en-route to another country, and certain types of business. 

You must register your details online at least 72 hours prior to travel.  The new system is called Electronic Travel System Authorisation (ESTA).  Once you have been approved electronically under ESTA the approval is valid for two years, or the expiration of your passport (whichever is the shortest).  ESTA applications are free of charge at the current time.

Travellers without access to the internet will need to have their travel agent, or a friend or relative assist them in applying for ESTA.  However, the named traveller is legally responsible for all information submitted on their behalf. 

A word of caution: The Foreign office have issued a warning that websites have sprung up on the internet offering to submit ESTA applications for a fee.  Travellers are warned to avoid these as they are not government-approved. Also, as the service is free, and easy to do for yourself, there really is no need to use an unknown third party.

Note: As well as applying for ESTA travellers to the U.S. are still required to provide their airline with passport details, as well as country of residence and the address of their first night’s stay in the U.S.

As of July 2009 is has also been a requirement for those entering the U.S. under the VWP to have a new electronic passport (also known as e-Passport).  Those wishing to retain their old passport will need to apply for a visa.

Failure to comply with the above could result in denial of entry to the U.S. so double check to make sure everything is in order well before your travel date.  Also, many travellers are unaware that travel insurance claims are normally rejected where denial of entry to a country (and any associated financial loss) occurs because of failure to obtain the necessary visa – or passport! 

If you are unsure about your visa status for entering the U.S., the Foreign Office (FCO) has published detailed information, links and contact numbers for ESTA and the U.S. Embassy in London, as well as a very good FAQ section.   Please pass this information along if you know someone planning to travel to the U.S. Also, it is worthwhile taking the time to pay a visit to the FCO website to review the important information provided about ESTA, passports and visas. 

Visit our Travel Guide to the United States and follow the link for the FCO.

Flickr Image: Ajagendorf25