Homeland Security implement online registration
Filed Under USA
In the efforts to further improve border security, the DHS or Department of Homeland Security will be requiring online registration for citizens in 35 countries before they board the aircraft. The Electronic System of Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online registration system required for citizens from countries who are under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. This system was fully implemented on January 19, 2009.
The ESTA is practically an online version of I-94W, a form that needs to be filled out before the flight by any citizen the said countries. But what makes ESTA different is that citizens could use the online program today and the validity of the data will be good for two years. Even if they don’t have any travel plans or destinations yet, they can still use ESTA and expect the same validity.
The ESTA will check the person’s records against the DHS and will prompt the user if he or she is allowed to enter the country in a matter of minutes. If the ESTA denies the user, they can still enter the country by applying for a Visa. Those who are unable to use the computer or access the internet can ask friends, relatives or the travel agent for assistance.
Although this could provide great convenience for travellers from these countries, the system has been under criticism lately. Obviously, information dissemination is has been very lacking from the DHS which could delay flights and transactions. For example, a person who is not aware of the procedure still has to go online hours before the flight and would be greatly disappointed if he or she finds out that his application has been denied.
