Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

Beginning January 12, 2009 all travelers from Visa Waiver countries will be required to obtain an ESTA authorization prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

Travelers who have not received ESTA approval after this date may be denied boarding, experience delayed processing, or be denied admission at a U.S. port of entry.

Travelers are strongly encouraged to obtain voluntary ESTA authorization for travel to the United States under the VWP beginning October 15, 2008. By obtaining their ESTA authorization early, travelers will accelerate their inspection process upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry. CBP will not, however, be implementing any fines for non-compliance at this time.

Travelers are not required to have specific plans to travel to the United States under the VWP before they apply for an ESTA authorization. DHS recommends that an ESTA approval be obtained as soon as a VWP traveler begins to plan a trip to the United States, and no later than 72 hours before departure. ESTA has, however, been designed to allow for the accommodation of last minute and emergency travelers.

Accompanied and unaccompanied children, regardless of age, will be required to obtain an independent ESTA authorization and determination of eligibility.

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