3 day advance warning for USA travel

This is important so please take a moment to read and pass on: The ESTA service is free, do not pay for it anywhere else, there are rogue websites who will charge you for a free servce..

The latest new US border regulations will mean that from January the 12th 2009 anyone travelling to America on holidays or business, must apply for an Esta and give at least a 3 day advance warning to enter the USA

If you fail to apply for an ESTA before you depart, you are expected to be refused travel – it is recommended that you take the time apply at least 72 hours in advance. Holidaymakers can provide the information online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov .

UK Passengers planning to visit the US under the visa waiver scheme need to comply with the new rules.

Airlines will be required to comply with the mandatory Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), introduced by the US government for all passengers flying into America from January 12.

The latest piece of US legislation, requires all travellers to provide personal information including their name, date of birth, and passport details, as well as travel information such as the flight number and Holiday or business destination address in the US

This is in addition to all USA holiday bookings which requires personal and travel details from the time the holiday is booked.

The purpose of ESTA is to allow the Department of Homeland Security to determine whether an individual is eligible to enter the US before they start their journey.

Those making late bookings can still apply, but there is risk that they may not receive immediate confirmation, BA warned.

The benefit of an ESTA is that it will be valid for two years and will allow multiple visits to the US within that period without passengers having to apply again.

Travellers to the US must continue filling in the green I-94W form available at check-in or on board until further notice.