BA issues ESTA reminder
Travellers to US need apply from January 20
British Airways has issued a reminder to travellers to the US that from January 20, 2010 it is mandatory for all visitors travelling under the Visa Waiver Program to receive approval to travel through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) scheme.
ESTA can be obtained, alongside further information, free of charge at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. The airline advises travellers apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before their journey. Once complete, the application is valid for two years and allows multiple visits to the US.
Silla Maizey, director of customer service, said: "It only takes 15 minutes to complete an ESTA and the vast majority of applicants will receive approval for travel within minutes, although it can take up to 72 hours.
"Under the new regulations, we will not be able to accept US-bound customers for their flight if they have not received ESTA for approval or if they do not hold a valid visa or Green Card. Most of our customers are already familiar with ESTA as it has been in place for more than a year, although not fully implemented."
Flying to the US? Complement your trip with an overnight stay at an airport hotel before you fly.
January 15, 2010
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