23/01/2016
USA – Changes to ESTA
Good Afternoon,
We have been informed of changes to the United States Visa Waiver Program, that have come into force.
Due to recent change in the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act by the US government, the following change has been introduced with immediate effect.
Under the Act, travellers in the following categories are no longer eligible to travel or be admitted to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
• Nationals of VWP countries who have travelled to or been present in Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria on or after March 1, 2011 (with limited exceptions for travel for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a VWP country).
• Nationals of VWP countries who are also nationals of Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.
Individuals that fall into the above criteria will still be able to apply for a visa using the regular immigration process at embassies or consulates. For those who need a U.S. visa for urgent business, medical, or humanitarian travel to the United States, U.S. embassies and consulates stand ready to process applications on an expedited basis.
Effective immediately, individuals who currently have valid Electronic System for Travel Authorizations (ESTAs) and who have previously indicated holding dual nationality with one of the four countries listed above on their ESTA applications will have their current ESTAs revoked.
You are able to view full and further information of the changes by clicking the following link
We would recommend that all clients intending to travel to the USA who feel they might be affected by this change in legislation, to contact their local US Embassy for further clarification regarding their personal status.