The Electronic System Travel Authorization (ESTA) Requirement for the
Visa Waiver Program Travelers:
Earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security introduced the
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), an online mechanism
through which Visa Waiver Program travelers apply for travel clearance
up to 72 hours before boarding a carrier bound for the United States.
Though ESTA does not become mandatory for most Visa Waiver Program
travelers until January 12, 2009, DOS has indicated that nationals of
the new VWP member countries may be required to use the new
authorization system beginning in mid-November, when expanded VWP
membership is expected to take effect. Further clarification of the
effective date of the ESTA requirement for nationals of the new member
countries is expected to become available in the future.
Further information on the ESTA program can be found at the following url:
http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1226611203693.shtm
Url for ESTA application is:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov <https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/>
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Susan Ewing
Visa/Immigration Administrator
JSA/Jefferson Lab
628 Hofstadter Road
Suite 2
Newport News, VA 23606
(757) 269-7687 Phone
(757) 269-7003 Fax