|
 
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to enter the USA for short visits without getting a tourist visa in advance.
Irish citizens intending to travel to the USA must log on to the Electronic System for Travel Autorization (ESTA) website and complete an online application. The details required on this application are as follows:
Applicant Information
- date of birth
- country of citizenship
- email address (optional)
- name
- sex
- telephone number (optional) |
|
Passport Information
- passport expiry date
- passport issue date
- issuing country
- passport number
-
- |
|
Travel Information
- airline carrier code (optional)
- airline flight number (optional)
- city where you are boarding
(optional)
-
- |
|
Address While in the USA Information
- address (optional)
Information regarding medical condition, drug abuse, criminal record, etc |
AT PRESENT, THERE IS NO FEE ASSOCIATED WITH THIS APPLICATION.
How the Electronic System for Travel Authorization Works
Log onto the ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov and complete an online application in English. Travelers are encouraged to apply early. The web-based system will prompt you to answer basic biographical and eligibility questions typically requested on a paper I-94W form.
Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, however, the Dept of Homeland Security (DHS) recommends that applications be submitted no less that 72 hours prior to travel. In most cases you will receive a response within seconds:
1. Authorization Approved: Travel authorized
2. Travel Not Authorised: Traveler must obtain a non-immigrant visa at a US Embassy or Consulate before travelling to the US
3. Authorization Pending: Travel will need to check the ESTA Website for updates within 72 hours to receive a final response
Who is required to have a travel authorization?
All passengers traveling under the Visa Waiver Program are required to have an approved travel authorization prior to traveling to the United States by air or sea. Even non-ticketed infants are required to have an approved travel authorization, if they do not have a visa for travel to the United States. An application may be submitted by a third party on behalf of a Visa Waiver Program traveler.
|
