Enhanced Travel Authorization Requirements Under the Visa Waiver Program

To reinforce the security of travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), updated requirements have been implemented. While nationals of VWP-designated countries remain eligible to travel without a visa, they must now obtain an approved travel authorization prior to departure.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have established a secure online portal where travelers—or authorized third parties—can submit an application for travel authorization. Applicants are required to provide biographic, travel, and payment information via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Once submitted, the system evaluates eligibility for visa-free travel under the VWP. An automated response is issued, and prior to boarding, carriers electronically verify the traveler’s authorization status with CBP.

About ESTA
 

ESTA is an automated system designed to assess whether individuals are eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security concerns. Approval via ESTA permits travelers to board a carrier en route to the United States under the VWP. Note that private carriers must be signatory participants in the Visa Waiver Program. A list of approved carriers is available on the CBP website.
CBP strongly recommends that travelers apply for ESTA at the time of booking, and no later than 72 hours prior to departure.

Important Clarifications

•     ESTA is not a visa and does not fulfill the legal requirements to substitute for a U.S. visa when one is required.
•     Individuals holding valid U.S. visas may travel for the purpose for which the visa was issued and are not required to apply for ESTA.
•     As with a visa, an approved ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States; final admission is determined by CBP officers upon arrival.

Additional Entry Procedures
 

Since January 12, 2009, ESTA authorization has been mandatory for VWP travelers. Upon arrival in the U.S., all VWP travelers must complete a blue Customs declaration form. The previously required green I-94W card is no longer necessary.

Validity and Duration of Stay
 

An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires—whichever occurs first. It permits multiple entries into the United States without the need to reapply. However, each visit must not exceed 90 days, and travelers should allow a reasonable interval between visits to avoid the appearance of attempting to reside in the U.S. There is no defined minimum period between entries, but discretion is advised.