ESTA Visa Compulsory for Travellers to America
The new online US visa waiver checking system for anyone travelling to the US from the UK is now compulsory (from 20 January 2010). The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) is required to be completed at least 72 hours before departure to the USA. The online form replaces the old green I-94 card, which was previously filled out by citizens of all 35 countries covered by the US Visa Waiver Program (including the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Ireland). The ESTA is necessary whether you plan to travel to travel to American for business or personal reasons.
Travellers without the authorisation will not be allowed to enter flights to America, British Airways and American Airlines Major have said.