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On September 10, 2015, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection launched a redesigned website for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) visitors to apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to traveling to the United States.

The VWP is administered by the Department of Homeland Security and enables citizens or nationals of 38 designated countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes without first obtaining a visa, as long as the intended stay is for 90 days or less.  All VWP travelers are required to have an approved ESTA prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the United States under the VWP.

Some of the new and updated features on the ESTA website include:

  • Access to frequently asked questions at any time during the application process.
  • Mobile-friendly design allows VWP visitors to apply and check the status of their ESTA using their smartphones.
  • Users will be able to translate the page into a different language at any point in the application by choosing one of the 23 languages in the language selector.
  • The Group feature has been moved to the beginning of the application process making it easier for families and groups to submit their applications at once.

The announcement confirmed that travelers who previously applied through the old website will still be able to access their application on the new website.  Visitors were also reminded that they do not have to apply for a new ESTA until their current ESTA expires or they receive a new passport.

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Photo of Patty Elmas ˘ Patty Elmas ˘

Patricia A. Elmas’ career spans over 25 years in the legal field, with 23 years of experience in the business immigration and compliance field. Her experience focuses on nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for the business, technology, public relations, managed care, health care, research…

Patricia A. Elmas’ career spans over 25 years in the legal field, with 23 years of experience in the business immigration and compliance field. Her experience focuses on nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for the business, technology, public relations, managed care, health care, research and entertainment communities, with a focus on obtaining nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for multi-national corporations, start-ups, extraordinary business professionals, and individuals. She leads a team of immigration professionals, supervises and mentors paralegals and provides case management for large volume caseloads for corporate clients. Patty acts as the main liaison for the practice’s case management system, providing input on enhancements and improvements to keep pace with the demands of the practice, and provides training for the same.

˘ Not admitted to the practice of law.