USA entry requirements
Please also check with your local embassy for an update on travel regulations
Important:
Passengers who are flying to the States, or transiting through the USA from 20 January, 2010 will not be allowed onto their flight if they have not completed their US Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (or ESTA), and received validation to travel.
Passengers must ensure that the number on the ESTA matches the number of the passport they're using for that trip.
The application process takes 15-20 minutes to complete and authorisation is normally granted immediately, but may take up to 72 hours.
The US Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) allows most European Citizen passport holders to visit the US for up to 90 days. The types of journeys that are permissible under the VWP include general travel/tourism, certain types of business and when transitting to another country.
The US requires all those travelling under the Visa Waiver Programme to provide details online at least 72 hours prior to travel. This is known as an Electronic Travel System Authorisation or ESTA. This is mandatory. If you do not have an ESTA you will be refused travel to the USA. For more information, and to apply online, please visit the ESTA website. ESTA is valid for a period of two years, or the validity of the traveller's passport (whichever is shorter). At present, US authorities do not propose to levy a charge for this service, although they have reserved the right to consider doing so in the future.
If you do not have Internet access a third party, such as a relative or travel agent, may apply for the ESTA for you. However, you will still be responsible under the law for the questions answered on your behalf. VWP travellers should be aware that unauthorised third parties have established websites which charge for information about ESTA and for submitting applications. These are not endorsed by, associated with, or affiliated in any way with the United States Government. UK travellers are advised to be wary of such sites and businesses, particularly those that seek fees for services offered. The process, as outlined above is currently free. Obtaining an ESTA should not be confused with the separate requirement, which will continue to apply, for you to provide your airline or carrier with details of your passport, country of residence and address of your first night's accommodation in the US.
All emergency or temporary passports presented for entry into the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including transit through the United States, must be electronic passports (e-Passports). The alternative is to apply for the appropriate visa.
Applicants arriving in the United States with a non-compliant passport may be required to undergo further processing and/or be denied admission. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may exercise discretion at the ports of entry in cases of medical or other emergency travel. You should consult the office issuing the temporary passport for further advice.
The Department of State has removed HIV Infection from the list of communicable diseases of public health significance. This means that HIV infection will no longer be an inadmissible condition. Applicants who are travelling to the United States on or after 4 January who are otherwise qualified may travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program.
Passport valid for 3 months is required
No vaccinations are required.
Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
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