USA Entry Requirements Have Changed (as of 1st Nov 2010)
If you are visiting or transiting through the USA you now need to provide additional new information. Anyone entering, departing or connecting through the USA must provide passenger information required by the US authorities under the Secure Flight Program. No airline will allow a passenger to board a flight to or from the USA unless clearance has been received at least 3 days prior to departure.
The following information is compulsory for each passenger
- Full name exactly as it appears on your passport (include middle names)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Passport number
- Nationality of passport (eg UK passport)
- Expiry date
- Which country the passport was issued in
- Full UK residential address
- Intended address in the US, or, if you will only be in transit then simply write that
What you need to do
If you’ve already booked with us and haven’t yet given us this information, you now need to do so. However, if you are flying with Qantas or British Airways, you can enter the information on the airline’s website. If you are flying with any other airline you must email us with the information as soon as you can.
What if I am already travelling on my RTW or already in the USA?
You still need to do this. The rules apply to all passengers who enter, depart or connect through the USA from 1st November onwards
ESTAs
Additionally you need to have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The ESTA is a travel permit required by all UK citizens entering the USA under the Visa Waiver program. You can apply for your ESTA at the US Department of Homeland Security ESTA website. You need to do this at least 72 hours before departure. There is a fee of US$14 per person for the ESTA.
What will happen if I fail to provide the information?
If you don't have an approved ESTA Travel Authorization or a valid U.S. Visitor Visa you will be denied boarding on all flights heading to the USA - and this also includes passengers who are just transiting the US en route to other destinations. Don't let this happen to you! Once your ESTA has been approved it then lasts for 2 years. Click here to get your ESTA. Remember that you will need a valid machine-readable passport to get an ESTA. Any UK traveller who isn't eligible for an ESTA or gets denied an ESTA will have to apply for a full US visitors visa before travelling.
