Visitors entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) must now have machine-readable passports. One alternative for travelers: apply for a visa to enter the country.
The Department of Homeland security said immigrations officers will offer non-compliant travelers from 22 VWP a one-time exemption from the requirement and admit them to the US.
Border officers will make note of the exemption on the passport and inform the travelers of their need for an updated passport or a visa. On later visits, if travelers do not have a machine-readable passport or a visa, they could be refused entry.
Report by David Wilkening
