ESTA

PLEASE NOTE: Due to a directive from the U.S. authorities, passengers from Visa-Waiver Program countries can expect to be denied passage if they have neither a valid ESTA authorisation nor a visa presented prior to departure. Violations are subject to penalties and other by-laws.

Travellers from Visa-Waiver Program countries must submit an applicaton through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Travellers must apply for ESTA through the online form. Passenger must also fill out the I-94W form, currently distributed onboard prior to arrival in the United States. The use of the I-94W form will eventually be discontinued but passengers must use both forms during an interim period.

It is the responsibility of the passenger to secure an ESTA authorisation prior to departure.

Travellers should submit the application online at least 72 hours prior to departure. In most cases, the application is handled immediately, and you will receive an instant answer online. Travellers should retain a printed copy of the ESTA receipt, to bring with them before the flight. U.S. authorities will not guarantee approval within less then the 72 hour time frame. Nonetheless, U.S. authorities will try to accommodate last-minute and emergency requests.

Once the application has been approved, it will be valid for two years. Thereafter, only the required travel information needs to be updated in the system prior to departure, that is:

More detailed information can be found on your local U.S. embassy website  or at US. Department of Homeland Security site. Also on Welcome to Esta the Official U.S. Government Web Site