In 2009, the U.S. implemented the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which requires that travelers bound for the U.S. complete an online application at least 72 before departure. The form can only be completed online and it is for the 36 countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) whose citizens do not require a standard visa to enter the U.S. Starting 8 September, this aerial permission slip will cost US$14 (€10, £9).

If you have plans to travel to the U.S. from any country participating in the VWP, make sure you have completed your travel authorization form online before 8 September. That's when the process for obtaining authorization from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will cost you $14. Since the entry permission is good for two years (or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner), you can take advantage of the free cost. Since the form can only be completed online, those without access to the Internet must find a computer with access or seek the help of a relative, friend or travel agent to complete the form.

On 20 January, 2010, the Department of Homeland Security began enforcing compliance of the ESTA requirement for VWP travelers. Therefore, VWP travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA should expect to be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the United States, according to the DHS Web site.

To fill out your ESTA application, be sure you are on the DHS Web site and not another site. Beware of scams and expensive alternative Web sites when conducting a search for the ESTA form using a search engine. Several companies and scammers have set up their sites to appear high on the search results list inviting you to complete the form for ESTA for as high as $49! Additionally, these sites may not be secure. Look for the "s" in the beginning of the site's URL – https://. You should never enter credit card information on a site that does not contain at least this level of security.

The official Web page and ESTA form can be found here. https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html

Countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program whose citizens must use ESTA to travel to the U.S.



Have you used ESTA to gain authorization to travel to the U.S.? What has your experience been? Do you think the fee is fair?