Please Note: This news story has expired and is held in our business travel news archive. The story is shown here for information purposes only. Please click here to view our current news releases.

US ESTA visitors fee - apply now to avoid charges

27th August 2010 Travellers to the United States are being advised to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) before September 8 when a USD14 charge will be introduced.

Charles Bartoldus, the US Department of Homeland Security's attache to the UK, said consumers could now apply for an ESTA, which lasts for two years, even if they do not have an immediate trip on the horizon.

Robert Neumann, programme manager for the US Customs and Border Protection, added: "We're suggesting consumers do it now – we don't want them all going on there on September 7."

The official website can be found at esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Follow our travel updates on Twitter: @_BusinessTravel