US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will make it mandatory for travellers from the 27 countries in the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) to submit biographic information online three days before they fly to America.
All nationals of the relevant countries ” which include the UK - visiting for business or pleasure under the VWP will need to receive an electronic travel authorisation prior to boarding a US-bound aircraft, meaning they will need to complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) form online which asks for similar information to the current I-94W form completed by travellers in-flight ” biographical data and details such as flight numbers and an address in the US.
”Rather than relying on paper-based procedures, this system will leverage 21st century electronic means to obtain basic information about who is traveling to the US without a visa,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. ”Getting this information in advance enables our frontline personnel to determine whether a visa-free traveller presents a threat, before boarding an aircraft or arriving on our shores. It is a relatively simple and effective way to strengthen our security, and that of international travellers, while helping to preserve an important programme for key allies.”
ESTA applications can be submitted any time prior to travel ” although it ”recommends” not less than 72hrs before - and once approved will be valid for up to two years if the individual”s passport does not expire in the meantime.
National Business Travel Association (NBTA) expressed support for the initiative but says it remains concerned about how well it will be advertised to travellers, and because there need to be clear options for last-minute travellers including those who arrive at the airport unaware of the new rule.
”Chertoff said that while DHS recommends applications be made at least 72 hours before travel, the ESTA program will be designed to facilitate travellers who apply inside of 72 hours,” it said in a statement.
It added that DHS must have sufficient resources to interview individuals who are denied ESTA authorisation and therefore must be approved for a visa.
DHS will start accepting voluntary applications through the ESTA website in August, but the rule will become mandatory from 12 January.
In the last fiscal year more than 15m VWP visitors travelled to the US.