Electronic System for Travel Authorization

It has been over a year since the Department of Homeland Security announced the creation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This system was designed for visitors who come into the United States from a Visa-Waiver qualifying countries. The system went active on August 1, 2008 but not many travelers are aware of it. The new policy requires foreign nationals from visa waiver countries to register with the system prior to their arrival in the United States. Once registered, the Department of Homeland Security will review the applications and approve them within 72 hours. Once approved, the authorization is good for a period of two years and allows for multiple entries. It is important to note that ESTA approval only authorizes a traveler to board a carrier for travel to the U.S. under the VWP (Visa Waiver Program). An ESTA approval does not guarantee admissibility at the port of entry. All visitors from the visa waiver countries must register with the ESTA prior to boarding a carrier bound to the United States.