We got an email overnight from Lotusphere telling us that to get into the US from the 1st of January next year you have to go through an application process before you travel:
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IMPORTANT VISA WAIVER PROGRAM UPDATE:
Beginning on January 1, 2009, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization or ESTA will be implementing new regulations in regard to VISA waivers for persons traveling TO the United States. The following countries will be required to use the Visa Waiver Program to enter the United States. Electronic pre-registration through ESTA is MANDATORY after January 1, 2009, for entry into the United States.
For further information please so to: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
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I’ve not heard tell of this stupid new rule anywhere else so take note if you’re travelling to the US in 2009 onwards.
Not had that email yet, strange… is this different to the info we supply online to Virgin when booking flights?
There was nothing (that I recall) on the Virgin website about extra requirements).
Most odd.
I got the same info from my travel agency when booking flight tickets. It’s the same green slip that you earlier filled out on the plane, but now it’s electronic.
I’m not sure if you actually need it, but I will bring with me a note of the reference number for the VISA waiver. Just to be on the safe side.
Hi,
According my information before 12 January it’s a test. After 12 January you have to do this 3 days in advance. So if you don’t do it you will not allow you to travel to the US.
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We got this information when we booked our flights. From what I understand it will replace the green forms we had to fill in during the flight.
It should have one advantage: If you get rejected for any reason you will at least know that before you board the flight (and don’t have to fly back on your own cost).
On the other hand immigration still can reject you during immigration, if they see you as a security problem
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Best wishes