ESTA, the US visa system, becomes mandatory

ESTA (United States Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) first introduced in September 2008 is to become mandatory from 20 January.  In a strongly worded statement British Airways has advised all customers travelling to or transferring through the US from this date to apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours in advance of their journey.  Under the new regulations, airlines will be unable to accept US-bound customers for their flight if they have not received ESTA approval or if they do not hold a valid visa or Green Card.  If you are travelling to say New Zealand on Air New Zealand via Los Angeles you will need an ESTA.  It is free and once completed is valid for two years and allows multiple visits without the need to reapply.  AERBT recommends that readers who do not have a visa and might have a need to travel in the future to USA without notice should update every two years to save waiting 72 hours to complete the paperwork before being able to make the journey. https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

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