Answer
The USA has implemented the new Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for all passengers to the USA who are travelling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) (ie can enter America without a visa). This includes all passengers in transit who are using the VWP to change planes in the USA en route to another country.

What do I need to do?
Travellers have to obtain online authorisation (known as an ESTA) before arriving at the airport. This can be done online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, where filling in the form should take about 15-20 minutes. Authorisation is normally immediate, but can take up to 72 hours. All passengers must have their own ESTA approval - this includes accompanied and unaccompanied children, regardless of age.

Due to the above potential delay in authorisation, the US Department of Homeland Security highly recommends that travellers submit ESTA registrations at least 72 hours before their US-bound flights are scheduled to depart. Note that travellers don't need to have firm travel plans to apply for authorisation.

What will happen?
Once this information has been successfully submitted, it will be run against appropriate law enforcement databases. If granted, ESTA authorisation will be valid for two years (or until the traveller's passport expires) as well as for multiple entries to the USA. For each new visit you must update your ESTA information about your flights and where you will be staying.

The USA Department of Homeland Security will then archive the information for 12 years - allowing it to be retrieved should any law enforcement investigation require it.

All passengers travelling under the VWP who do not have ESTA authorisation will not be permitted entry onto their carrier. We therefore highly recommend that travellers apply for their ESTA as soon as they've made arrangements for travel to the US.

Other travellers:
If you need a visa to enter or transit through the USA, you don't need to apply for an ESTA.



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