Coming soon: the on-line authorization for traveling to the USA
Published: 2008 - October/November, Current Affairs
M.F.
The Department of Homeland Security introduces a new procedure through Internet for traveling to the USA according to the program “Visa-free Travel.”
A new on-line procedure of authorization for traveling to the USA, called ‘Electronic System for Travel Authorization’ (Esta), has been activated by the United Sates’ Department of Homeland Security. The IT system allows the American authorities to assess in advance those who intend to travel to the North American country by using the “Visa-free Travel” program, which affects Italian travelers going to the USA, for example, for tourism or specific appointments such as professional, scientific or educational conferences or conventions, meetings, or medical treatments.
Based on the official communication, the new procedure will become mandatory effective January 12, 2009. But already since August 1st of this year, registration is available on a voluntary basis on the web site www.cbp.gov/esta.
Potential travelers can register on-line through Esta at any time, but the American authorities suggest of doing it with large advance, meaning as soon as a travel to the United States is scheduled. If after registering things should change, it is possible to easily update them later, still on the special Internet site.
In most cases Esta is capable of giving an almost immediate reply about the chances of traveling through the “Visa-free Travel” program. Authorization is valid for multiple entries in the United States and is valid for two years unless the traveler’s passport expires before that time.
However, approval by Esta is not to be considered a guarantee for entry in the United States, In fact, a traveler traveling based on the “Visa –free Travel” program, is only authorized to board a flight for the United Sates. It will then become the task of the officer at the Customs and Border Protection (Department of Homeland Security) at the entry point to decide about the actual entry in the United States.
Additional Information
For additional information on modifications to the program “Visa-free Travel” we suggest to visit the English language web sites of the Customs and Border Protection (www.cbp.gov/esta) and State Department’s about the Visa-free Travel Program at (travel.state.gov/visa).
