Effective 12 January 2009, passengers travelling to or via the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must obtain an ESTA in advance of departure.

Obtaining an ESTA is in addition to the I-94W which a passenger is still required to complete and present to immigration, and to any advance passenger information the airline asks for.

The official ESTA website is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov From the 8th September 2010 an official USA Embassy charge of 15 USD per application. Have your passport in front of you ready to insert details. Payment is by credit card on line as part of the application.

Homeland Security's new ESTA system will replace the existing green I-94 forms. Clients can be assured that ESTA applications do not require any additional information than is currently required on the I-94 form.

ESTA APPLICATIONS ARE MADE ONLINE ANYTIME FROM BOOKING UP TO A MINIMUM OF 72 HOURS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

Once clients details are entered into ESTA, an application number is given. A response confirming elegibility may be given immediately however, it could take between 12 and 72 hours, and if approved an approval number will be given. This number should be noted for future reference, but it is not mandatory to print and show to the Customs Border Protection (CBP) officer upon entry into the USA. Each family member travelling is required to complete an ESTA application. The ESTA approval is valid for up to 2 years as long as the flight number and travel date are updated for each separate visit.