USA Visa Update: Important information
SYDNEY – All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers are now required to obtain a travel authorisation via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) prior to travelling to the United States under the VWP.
ESTA is accessible online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov for citizens and eligible nationals of VWP countries.
ESTA is not required for those holding a valid U.S. visa.
How the Electronic System for Travel Authorization Works
Applicants must log onto the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete an on-line application.
Travellers are encouraged to apply as soon as travel is planned. The web-based system will prompt you to answer basic biographical and eligibility questions typically requested on the paper I-94W form.
Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. A third party such as a friend, relative, or personnel in the travel industry may file an application on your behalf.
However, the traveller is responsible for the truthfulness and accuracy of all information submitted on his or her behalf.
In most cases, applicants will receive one of these responses within seconds –
1. Authorisation Approved: Travel authorised.
2. Travel Not Authorised: Traveller must obtain a non-immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before traveling to the United States.
3. Authorisation Pending: Traveller will need to check the ESTA Web site for updates within 72 hours to receive a final response.
An approved travel authorization via ESTA is:
· Required for all VWP travelers prior to travelling to the U.S. under the VWP;
· Generally valid, unless revoked, for up to two years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first;
· Valid for multiple entries into the United States.;
· Not a guarantee of admission to the United States at a port of entry;
· Only accessible online using Internet Explorer browsers;
· FREE on the CBP Web site; and
· Applications may only be completed online.
The following Fact Sheet contains more information
http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/newsroom/fact_sheets/travel/esta/fact_sheet_esta.ctt/fact_sheet_esta.pdf
The most comprehensive source of information on U.S. Consular services in Australia is at the website http://sydney.usconsulate.gov/
Further information on U.S. Consular services overseas is available on the Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov
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