ESTA Resources

The ESTA has been around for over a decade. During this period, the system has undergone a number of changes which have enhanced its security, usability and accessibility. Notably, there have been recent changes to the layout of the form. For example, it underwent a redesign to a be mobile responsive website, with additional security related questions in 2019. There are also some changes…

Introduction Travelers are gaining more awareness regarding online data collection practices of airlines, hotels, governments and other entities involved in providing travel related services. Many travelers now book hotels and other services using pseudo-names, aliases and other intentionally inaccurate data to gain a greater sense of privacy over their own personal information. However,…

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to affect international travel, it's essential to keep informed about the latest changes to US ESTA, visa and immigration rules. As well as travel from many countries being restricted or suspended, the US has closed its borders with Canada and Mexico to all but essential travel. The economic impact of the coronavirus lockdown is also having a severe impact on…

Introduction With the coronavirus pandemic affecting many countries, it’s more essential than ever to keep an eye on the latest developments regarding USA immigration rules, visas, and ESTA. In an update on March 30, USCIS announced that because of the temporary closure of Application Support Centers, biometrics previously submitted will be reused to validate the application for…

Introduction If you are a citizen of a country that is part of the Visa Waiver Program, you are eligible to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization or ESTA online. Whether you are visiting in transit or for business or leisure, a vacation, completing the ESTA application online avoids the need to apply for a visa…

Trump Administration Travel Restrictions for visitors who have recently been in Schengen Countries On March 11th 2020, in response to the growing number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) infections in the United States, the Trump Administration has announced new travel restrictions. Starting at 11:59PM on Friday, March 13th 2020 Eastern Standard Time, travelers who have visited…

Introduction There are several questions on the ESTA application form that are optional. One of these questions is regarding social media account information. This question provides Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with a point of reference when checking applicant information matches an alternative source…

Introduction In an attempt to control the spread of Covid-19 (Coronavirus), the United States is introducing restrictions on travel for foreign nationals coming from China and Iran as well as introduced travel advisories for Italy and South Korea. Individuals with an approved ESTA or U.S. visa are considered to be foreign nationals, and are subject to the restrictions below: Foreign…

Introduction Employment information is used by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to help determine if ESTA applicants are intending to illegally enter the United States to become economic migrants. The specific section related to this law is in the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act Section 214b. ESTA applicants are required to provide employment information as evidence of having substantial…

Introduction The U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) arrivals statistics by country of citizenship from 2014 to 2018 have been analyzed and consolidated in this article. These statistics are released on an annual basis by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the results for 2019 are still being processed. This article will share some of the findings discovered on meaningful results…