ESTA forms, more detailed information

Some time ago, I informed you about the new ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) requirements for visiting the USA (either by cruise ship or plane).
I had various customers asking me to assist them completing the application on-line. In this post, I will explain a bit more and show you some Q&A about ESTA. If you require more Q&A, please let me know and I will set up a follow-up post later.

The application follows the next 4 simple steps:

For a video about ESTA forms click here.

Q & A section:

Q: What is the Electronic System for Travel Authorization?
A: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Upon completion of an ESTA application, a VWP traveler is notified of his or her eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP.

Q: Is an ESTA a visa?
A: No. An approved ESTA is not a visa. It does not meet the legal or regulatory requirements to serve in lieu of a U.S. visa when a visa is required under U.S. law. Individuals who possess a valid visa will still be able to travel to the United States on that visa for the purpose for which it was issued.

Q: How does a traveler apply for an ESTA to travel to the United States?
A: ESTA is a Web-based system. In order to apply for an ESTA, go to https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/, follow the instructions to answer all of the required questions, and submit an application for travel authorization. Travelers will not be able to submit ESTA applications at a U.S. port of entry or a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Q: Which countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program?
A: Citizens or nationals of the following countries are currently eligible to travel to the United States under the VWP:
Andorra
Australia Austria
Belgium
Brunei
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Republic of Korea
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
The Netherlands
New Zealand

Q: It is less than 72 hours before my flight to the United States. I just found out about the ESTA application, what can I do?
A: While CBP recommends that you apply at least 72 hours before travel, it is possible to apply anytime prior to boarding. Most people receive an answer within seconds.