BVISLANDERS subject to new US visa waiver regulation in 2009

~~Adz:Right~~ Roadtown, Tortola - BVIslanders using United Kingdom passports are being reminded that come January 12, 2009, they will be among those subjected to a new stipulation under the United States (US) Visa Waiver Programme (VWP).

The new law requires persons planning to travel to the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and the US mainland to provide their biographical, travel and eligibility information through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) by accessing https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.

The electronic system will determine whether visa-free applicants pose any security or law enforcement risks and provide an electronic travel authorisation to those approved for entry. Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for up to two years or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever is sooner.

Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Mrs. Rosalie Adams is encouraging persons to be mindful of the new requirement given the frequency of travel between the USVI and the British Virgin Islands. “It is important to note that you do not need to have travel arrangements in place to complete the online application,” she said encouraging persons to seek approval at the earliest opportunity.

She reminded persons that the new requirement applies to persons travelling by both air and sea. “It has become such a tradition that we simply get on the ferry and travel to the USVI that we tend not to think beforehand about immigration procedures. Let us keep this new requirement at the forefront of our minds so that we will be in compliance with the regulation.”

Mrs. Adams also encourages persons to adhere to the suggested timeframe for seeking online authorisation. “The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has recommended that applications be submitted via ESTA at least three days prior to your expected date of travel. I urge you to bear this is mind as you plan your travel to minimise any possible disappointments you may face if you fail to comply.”

Government has already written to local travel agencies asking that they assist customers who use their services to make reservations for travel, to complete the online application for authorisation.  The Department of Homeland Security allows a third party, such as a relative or travel agent, to submit an ESTA application on behalf of a VWP traveller.

The pre-authorisation is not required for persons who need a visa for travel to the U.S. and, like a visa it does not guarantee entry at U.S. ports of entry. Applicants who are denied travel authorisation through ESTA will have to apply for a non-immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Citizens or nationals of other countries currently eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP are also subject to the new regulation.

ESTA is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. The Visa Waiver Programme allows eligible nationals to travel to the United States for periods of up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.