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New security system for US travel

8th January 2009 Important Information For Travellers to the United States.

Under the Visa Waiver Program, all international travellers who wish to travel to the United States from 12th January 2009 require an online travel authorisation at least 72 hours prior to departure.

Under the new system, passengers travelling to the United states from the 12th January 2009 are required to fill in an online form at least 72 hours before departure. The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) replaces the current system where passengers fill out green homeland security forms once aboard their flight.

If you do not have approval prior to embarkation you may be denied boarding.

Countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program include:

Andorra
Austria
Australia
Belgium
Brunei
Denmark
Finland France
Germany
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Liechtenstein Luxembourg
Monaco
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Portugal
San Marino
Singapore
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
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Along with personal details and full passport information, traveller's will also be required to supply their flight / travel information and also provide an address while in the United States.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security check the information against law enforcement databases and provides one of three responses almost instantaneously: "Authorization Approved", "Travel Not Approved" or "Authorization Pending".

For further information on the Visa Waiver Program and how to proceed with your application please visit the US Department of Homeland Security website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

If you hold a passport that is not participating in the Visa Waiver programme, please consult the US Embassy for Visa requirements.

Further Information:
US Homeland Security

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