June 2009
ESTA - Official website recommended
Some hepful information for completing your online application.
As many of our clients will be aware, the US authorities have now introduced a system called ESTA, Electronic System for Travel Authorisaion. This requires advance travel and passport information, that in the past has been completed onboard aircraft on green visa waiver forms, prior to flight arrival in the USA.
The details now have to be completed online at least 72hours prior to travel to the USA. Information required includes passport details, flight number, destination address and questions regarding communicable diseases, arrests and convictions for certain crimes, and past history of any visa refusal.
This information is in addition to the requirement for APIS data, Advance Passenger Information, which is already required for travel to the USA.
To apply for ESTA, please visit http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/esta/.
A note of caution, we have been made aware of alternative websites, that have been charging for the service, and not providing the relevant travel authority. The official website shown above is free of charge.
