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Electronic System for Travel Authorization Launched for Visa Waiver Travelers Visiting United States
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the ESTA Interim Final Rule (IFR), which establishes a new online system that is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Once ESTA is mandatory, all nationals or citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries who plan to travel to the United States for temporary business or pleasure will require an approved ESTA prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the United States under the VWP. The rule does not apply to U.S. citizens traveling overseas.
To apply for authorization to travel to the United States under the VWP, travelers will log on to the ESTA web-based system and complete an application online providing the biographical and eligibility information currently required on the paper I-94W form. The ESTA web-based system will be available for voluntary applications after Aug. 1, 2008. ESTA will be implemented as a mandatory program on Jan. 12, 2009.
