New Travel Regulation for International Visitors Takes Effect

Effective January 20, inbound travelers to the United States from Visa Waiver Program countries may be denied boarding by the airlines if they haven’t complied with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization program.

ESTA, introduced in January 2009, requires all international travelers from VWP countries to register in an online database. Previously, international travelers had to fill out an I-94W form before each trip, but ESTA seeks to streamline and update the process. Now, international travelers to the United States must go to the ESTA Web site and fill out an application before entering the country by air or sea. If approved, the authorization is good for two years and can be renewed. Travelers no longer have to fill out an I-94W form before each trip. U.S. officials say ESTA will speed up the process for travelers, enable customs officials to screen passengers in advance, and improve security.

Since ESTA was unveiled on January 12, 2009, it hasn’t been strictly enforced. Those who didn’t apply for ESTA were given a friendly reminder to do so next time. But starting January 20, 2010, the program has new teeth and, according to the Web site, “VWP travelers who have not received an ESTA approval … may be denied boarding. CBP [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] will handle emergencies on a case-by-case basis.” On January 20, DHS officials initiated a 60-day transition to enforced ESTA compliance for air carriers. After that period, the I-94W forms will be eliminated, and airlines risk fines for allowing travelers to board without the proper documentation.

What does this mean for meetings? The U.S. Office of Travel and Tourism advises planners to alert international members and attendees to these new regulations. They should also post reminders on conference Web sites and registration Web pages and provide a link to the ESTA Web site.

The U.S. Travel Association expressed disappointment over the implementation of the policy, fearing it will make the United States a less desirable place to visit. In a press release, U.S. Travel says “the U.S. government appears to lack a comprehensive communications campaign, alliance with airlines, or partnership with foreign airports to drive ESTA enrollment beyond the current level of compliance.” The association is encouraging Congress to earmark funds for programs that would drive enrollment, including Internet kiosks at international airport terminals.

The ESTA requirement does not affect U.S. citizens returning from overseas, people from VWP countries traveling on a valid U.S. visa, or travelers from non-VWP nations.

RSS Share

Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2010 Penton Media Inc.


Acceptable Use Policy
blog comments powered by Disqus

Search for Meeting Space

Find Event Suppliers, Request Quotes

Search 100,000 Venues


Advanced Search

The Meeting Planning Blog

Face2Face Latest Posts

Sign Up for Our Free E-Newsletters

Meetings Collaborative

Rate your experience with meeting venues and suppliers.

Facility / Hotel

 
Powered by: Meetings Collaborative
Aega Awards

Apex Webinars

Demonstrating Leadership in Turbulent Times

Join MeetingsNet, the Convention Industry Council, and two meeting professionals to learn how seeking out professional development and volunteer opportunities can enhance your career advancement. Click here for free registration.
View it Now! | View APEX Archives

Webinars

Medical Meeting Compliance: It Doesn't Have to Hurt

Overwhelmed by state and federal rules about what pharmaceutical meeting planners can—and can’t—do with meetings that involve healthcare practitioners? We’ll help you take it one step at a time. Join us August 5th from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET.
Register Here! | View Archived Webinars

Recent Comments

Powered by Disqus

Back to Top

Explore Our Newsletters


Meeting Planner Survival Guide

Whether you're a novice planner or a veteran, this compilation of must-read articles is your meeting planning resource.

Pharma Meeting Management Forum

Medical Meetings and the Center for Business Intelligence co-organize the Annual Pharmaceutical Meeting Management Forum.

Visit our photo gallery from the Sixth Annual Forum.

Suppliers/
Facilities/CVBs

MeetingsNet makes it easy to find the CVBs, tourist boards, and facilities you need for your next meeting.

Deal Finder

Special offers brought to you by MeetingsNet.

Find A Job

Targeted to all aspects of the hospitality and special events industry.

Education
Central

Upcoming Events, Live and Online

Facebook   Twitter   RSS Feed   Email

Inside Current Issue

June AM

June 2010

April AM

April 2010

February AM

February 2010

December AM

December 2009

Feb MTNGS Cover

October 2009

Browse Back Issues