Changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization under the US Visa Waiver Program

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced new entry measures that will require all those travelling under the US Visa Waiver Program(VWP) to provide personnel details online 72 hours prior to boarding a plane and is named the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Effective January 12, 2009, all travelers under the US VWP must be required to obtain an approved ESTA by completing online form. This online form is similar to the current paper form of the I-94W and can be accessed through the ESTA website https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
The US VWP allows most VWP nationalities to travel to the U.S.A for business or pleasure for a short stay (90 days or less) without a visa.

Although the ESTA has been on a voluntary basis as of August 2008, it is mandated for all travellers to the U.S.A from January 12, 2009. VWP travellers who do not apply for and receive travel authorization via ESTA website may be denied boarding or be denied admission at the U.S. airport. For more information, and to apply for the ESTA please visit the following website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and choose a preferred language for your clear understanding.

The ESTA will be valid for a period of two years, or for the validity of the travellers passport (whichever comes first). At present, the ESTA is not subject to a charge for the application. If you do not have Internet access, a third party, such as your relatives or travel agencies may apply for the ESTA on behalf of you. However, you are still responsible under the law for the questions answered on your behalf.

More Information :

1. ESTA application(U.S. Immigration Authority website)
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

2. ESTA details (including the US VWP)
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) : http://www.cbp.gov/travel/
U.S. Department of State : http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html