“ESTA” NOW REQUIRED FOR VISA WAIVER APPLICANTS
DHS now requires an online visitor visa applications for individuals wishing to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. This new online application, known as the “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” (“ESTA”), provides for the issuance of a two year entry document for purposes of business or pleasure visits to the
. ESTA provides an almost immediate determination of eligibility to travel under the Visa Waiver Program. DHS recommends that applicants apply at least 72 hours in advance of planned travel, and have available information relating to their destinations, addresses of residence in the
and general biographic information. The website, initially available in English only, now includes 15 additional languages.
Access to the website can be gained through accessing the DHS specified site at: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.
The 35 visa waiver participant countries are as follows:
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In addition, countries including Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Poland and Romania are currently working towards eventual inclusion.
It should be noted that only individuals wishing to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program are required to secure an ESTA authorization. Individuals from visa waiver countries who hold valid U.S. visas in their passports do not need an ESTA authorization.