Monday, April 6, 2009

Travelling to the USA

I have recently booked my next flight to the USA and have received my travel authorisation. Would-be travellers to the USA from countries that are included in the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travellers to apply to go to the USA for a period of 90 days without a visa, should be aware of new regulations which came into force on 12 January 2009.

Beginning January 12, 2009, eligible citizens or nationals from all Visa Waiver Program countries must obtain approval via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) prior to travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

I’m doing this post to advise that in the course of making my own application, I found various sites offering to facilitate application for this authorisation at a cost of some €39.00 or thereabouts. Please be advised that all information pertaining to (ESTA) is a free service which can be assessed here at the official USA Gov. Homeland Security Web Site and does not bear a cost.

I hope this information is of help to you.