Brits still unaware of new US visa requirements

Following a report that nearly 60% of British travellers are unaware of ESTA - the compulsory, new US visa requirement - EssentialTravel.co.uk today cautions that any traveller denied entry into the US, because they lack the necessary travel documents, will not be covered by their travel insurance.

As of now, anyone travelling to the US under their visa waiver scheme, must register online for the new Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), at least 72 hours before they go. Any traveller who has not been pre-approved under the ESTA scheme, will almost certainly be prevented from boarding their flight in the UK, or be denied access into the USA by Customs officials upon arrival.

“Sadly ignorance is no excuse”, says Stuart Bensusan, Insurance Director at EssentialTravel.co.uk. “We don’t expect US Immigration officials are going to be lenient to anyone who turns up without the necessary clearance. And anyone who forfeits their holiday - flight, accommodation, cruise etc… - because they don’t have an ESTA, won’t be able to claim on their travel insurance: it’s their responsibility to secure the necessary travel documentation.’’

Stuart Bensusan urges anyone lucky enough to be travelling to Washington to witness Barack Obama’s historic inauguration ceremony next Tuesday (20th January), or any part of the US in the foreseeable future, to apply for an ESTA immediately at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

EssentialTravel.co.uk’s ESTA advice for anyone planning to visit 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-clearance scheme, which enabled 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 please 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.