What is an ESTA Visa Waiver travel authorization?
To strengthen the security of travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, a new requirement has been introduced for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries. It is still possible to travel without a visa, but you will have to obtain an approved travel authorization (ESTA) prior to travel to the United States. Here is how the travel authorization process works: The Department of Homeland Security and the United States Customs and Border Protection now operate an online system that allows passport holders from Visa Waiver countries to apply for a travel authorization. Passport and travel information is entered into a central database and a check is done to determine if you are eligible to travel to the United States without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. The system will provide you an authorization number granting you permission to travel to the USA. Prior to boarding, the airline will electronically verify with the United States Customs and Border Protection that
