|
A recent decision by the United States Customs and Border Protection authority to
levy $14 (£9) charge on travelers for an electronic visa to visit the country
has been criticized by many countries, especially the European Union. The charge,
known as an Electronic System for Travel Authorization or Esta is currently not
there but from September 8th onwards, people will have to pay.
For all the UK citizens traveling to US, getting an Esta was made compulsory in
2009. European Union home affairs administrator Cecilia Malmstrom expressed her
regret over the fee established by this rule. She is said to have raised repeated
concerns over the introduction of such a fee as it may deter tourists to enter the
country. She remained convinced such new requirements are not in agreement with
the commitment of United States to facilitate transatlantic mobility.
However, the consumer groups have already started planning to get around the fee
by applying for visa before September 8. Usually, Esta lasts until a person's
passport expires or for a period of two years, whichever is earlier. Esta is popular
because it tells people in advance whether they are eligible to travel to America
under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Normally a person can instantly get the answer
whether his application has been submitted or not and can maximum take up to 6 days.
It must be remembered that an approval on Esta does not guarantee entry into America.
It only permits 'approval to travel' to America.
America Car Rental helps you to find
the right car hire
service at various locations in USA!
|
