Introduction of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), January 2009

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an electronic registration system requiring travellers who are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to register in advance of travelling to the USA. The ESTA program began on a voluntary basis on 1 August 2008. Mandatory registration will come into force as of 12 January 2009. Visa Waiver travellers should register through the Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection Agency website. Registration is free and may be done by third parties e.g. travel agencies.

ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, and once approved, generally will be valid for up to two years or until the applicant's passport expires or in the event of a name change. Authorisations will be valid for multiple entries into the U.S. The US Department of Homeland Security is recommending that ESTA applications be submitted as soon as an applicant begins making travel plans and at least 72 hours in advance of travel. An applicant who does not receive authorisation to travel will need to go to their nearest U.S. Diplomatic or Consular Mission and apply for a visa. An ESTA approval does not determine admissibility into the United States. The final decision for entry to the United States rests with US immigration authorities at the port of entry. The ESTA program does not apply to Irish citizens who are holders of a visa for the United States. For more information on ESTA, please visit www.cbp.gov/ESTA

Travel Registration

Irish citizens travelling or living overseas, outside the Common Travel Area, (Ireland/Great Britain) are encouraged to register their contact details with the Department of Foreign Affairs. Registration is voluntary. It is a facility available to all Irish citizens travelling abroad although it is primarily intended for those who are travelling to remote destinations or locations where they may be at risk.  You will find the travel registration form here.