No ESTA – No GoBama?

Barack Obama’s Presidential inauguration in Washington DC on 20th January 2009 is the hottest ticket going, with eager ‘GoBama’ fans reportedly offering up to £25,000 to get into the ceremony. Hotels within a 60 mile radius of the White House, are already fully booked, and airlines are planning to raise ticket prices to capitalise on the demand.

“Obama is bigger than the Beatles”, says Stuart Bensusan, Sales Director at EssentialTravel.co.uk, “but in the midst of all this Obama-mania, Brits planning on attending the event need to remember to register online for the new Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), if they want to be a part of history in the making.”

From January 12th 2009, anyone flying between the UK and the US requires a valid ESTA, before they can enter the country. Any travellers refused entry because they do not hold the correct travel documents – will not be covered by their travel insurance. “Not only does this mean people will lose the money they’ve spent on an inauguration ticket, they’ll also lose their flights, accommodation and any car hire” warns Stuart.

Stuart’s ESTA advice for anyone travelling to the US:

Who should apply for an ESTA?

The ESTA ruling applies to anyone travelling to the US under the visa waiver scheme, which allows British Citizen passport holders to visit the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

Why do I need an ESTA?

The ESTA is a compulsory pre-checking scheme enabling the Department of Homeland Security to determine whether an individual is eligible to enter the United States before they fly.

What do I need to include in my ESTA application?

Travellers are required to enter their personal information into an online form: including name, DOB and passport details, as well as travel information such as the flight number and destination address in the US.

How long is an ESTA valid for?

ESTAs are valid for 2 years and will allow multiple visits to the US within that time period, without reapplication.

How much does an ESTA cost?

Nothing, it’s free.

How do I apply for an ESTA?

To apply for ESTA visit - https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

For more information on ESTA and other travel news, information and up-to-the-minute advice, visit Essentialtravel.co.uk .