ESTA: Visiting the U.S. on a Visa Waiver?
Remember to Obtain Travel Authorization FirstBCD Travel In Motion, December 2008
If you are eligible to visit the U.S. without a visa, please remember that from Jan. 12, 2009 you will need to obtain authorization to visit before starting your journey, under the new online system – the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) – established as part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Travelers can apply for authorization online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. They are asked to provide information similar to what is currently submitted on a green I-94W form on arrival in the U.S. Details include passport data and where the applicant intends to stay on arrival (this can be amended at a later stage).
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security checks the information against law enforcement databases and provides one of three responses almost instantaneously: “Authorization Approved,” “Travel Not Approved” or “Authorization Pending.”
If authorization is approved, it is valid for two years, unless the traveler's passport expires or biographical details change. “Authorization Pending” means travelers need to check the website for the next three days for a decision. If authorization is not approved, travelers may still be able to enter the U.S. but they will have to apply for a visa. Passport holders with a valid U.S. visa do not need to obtain an authorization.
The DHS recommends travelers apply for an authorization at the beginning of their planning process for a trip to the US and not less than 72 hours before departure.
Travelers will be reminded of ESTA requirements by their BCD Travel agent during the booking process and will receive another reminder, with a link to the registration site, on their e-mail itinerary.
In order to ensure maximum protection of your travelers' data, BCD Travel and its agents will not undertake ESTA registration for travelers. Travelers must register themselves on the official DHS site.