Although the references I've found apply to British nationals they probably also apply to all other countries participating in their Visa Waver program.
So, if you don't have a full visa, and are visiting or transiting through the USA - all now go through Immigration controls, there's no staying airside to catch connecting flights - these revised procedures apply.
Um ... where do you register? The link's at the bottom of this page - http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/visa/niv/esta.html. I guess for other nationalities start by going to the web site of your 'local' US Embassy.
ZitatAlles anzeigenFrom Monday(12 January 2009), UK nationals will need to complete an electronic authorisation form 72-hours before they fly, which has to be approved by the US Department of Homeland Security.
Travellers do not have to specify exactly when they are travelling and the electronic authorisation lasts for two years.
It applies to all travellers using the Visa Waiver Program, which allows British passport holders who intend to stay in America for less than 90 days to enter the country without a visa.
The scheme, known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), had been voluntary since it was first introduced in August last year. Previously, travellers would fill out a paper form during their flight an option which is being dispensed with on Monday.
A spokesman for the Foreign Office said: “From January 12, thousands of Britons could potentially be turned away by immigration at US airports if they fail to register on ESTA 72 hours prior to their departure.
“British travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely to be detained and sent home.
“This may affect a wide range of British nationals and the Foreign Office is particularly concerned that people who may not have heard of ESTA and booked their trip before enforcement of the new rule may be caught out.”
