Travellers risk detention under new US ESTA visa rules in force from today

This is the 501st post on Bangalore Aviation. My sincere thanks to all the visitors and supporters.

From today, travellers visiting the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) risk being detained at airports and sent home if they don't comply with new U.S. immigration rules.

The new Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program has been made mandatory from today, January 12, 2009. ESTA replaces the written green I-94W form, previously used by visitors under the VWP, to enter the United States, without a visa.

ESTA requires visitors from the 34 VWP countries must now register their details online at least three days before departure.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has assured travellers that the system can handle last-minute and emergency requests.

Travellers are also advised that ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States. The final decision rests with the immigration official at the port of entry.

For full details on ESTA, VWP countries, and related links, please read my previous article.