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Sneak Preview of ESTA Web Tool Now Available
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization is a new, fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.
ESTA will ask applicants to provide basic biographical and VWP eligibility information to Customs and Border Protection. This information will allow CBP to determine, in advance of the applicant's travel, whether the applicant is eligible to travel under the VWP and whether he or she poses a law enforcement or security risk.
VWP travelers may apply for authorization at any time prior to travel to the United States, but are encouraged to do so at least 72 hours before traveling.
The ESTA Web site will go live and begin accepting applications on August 1. The travel authorization will become mandatory for VWP travelers on January 12, 2009. After this date VWP travelers will not be allowed to board a flight or cruise to the United States without an ESTA.
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