As of January 12th, 2009 all visitors from Visa Waiver countries (which includes Ireland) must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). This replaces the green I-94 form. Please note this is a compulsory measure which has been implemented by the US Government. Failure to comply means that boarding maybe denied. Please be aware beginning September 8th, 2010 there is a $14 fee when applying for your ESTA number. Payment can be made on through the website listed below.
It is a very quick process that only takes a couple of minutes. Once you register and receive approval, make a note of your number (we recommend you print it).
We encourage you to have your number with you when you are departing Ireland to the USA or via the USA. Your registration is valid for two years.
All you have to do within the two years is update your hotel address on the form (if the location of where you are staying changes.)
Authorised travel also allows multiple entries into the US.
Remember if you renew your passport you will also have to update this information on the ESTA website. Travellers who currently hold an approved ESTA will not need to pay the ESTA fee when updating an ESTA application. However, travellers with new passports and re-applying for an ESTA will need to pay the ESTA fees.
In the event that you receive notification that you are not authorised to travel, we recommend that you contact the US Embassy immediately to arrange a meeting with them. Please keep in mind; it can take up to 3 weeks to schedule a meeting. We strongly recommend that you register online today.
Please note pre-authorisation is not a guarantee of admissibility to the United States at a port of entry. ESTA approval only authorises a traveller to board a carrier for travel to the U.S. under the VWP. (For additional information, please visit “For International Visitors” at cbp.gov/travel.
Please note passengers who fail to pre-pay and register with ESTA onwards may be denied boarding; experience delayed processing or be denied admission at a U.S. port of entry. Please note it is the passenger’s responsibility to pre-register with ESTA. This new entry requirement should speed up the immigration process and is viewed as a positive measure.
If you have further questions, please ask our USA specialists or visit cbp.gov/travel.
