IRISH APPLICATIONS for new US travel permits, which come into force in the new year, are “very low” compared to other EU countries, the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) said yesterday.
Irish people flying to the US are being warned that they will have to register online at least 72 hours before departure under the visa waiver programme.
However, the ITAA also said consumers should watch out for online scams which can charge $50 for the application, which is provided for free on a US government website.
The new requirements come into force on January 12th, bringing an end to the existing in-flight visa waiver system. After this US authorities can refuse entry to Irish visitors without clearance.
Less than half of 1 per cent of people are turned down and most applications are approved instantly, according to the ITAA.
People are not authorised in cases where a person is suspected of travelling on a lost or stolen passport; is on an anti-terrorism watchlist; or has answered “yes” to any of the traditional questions about criminal involvement, communicable diseases, terrorist activities, previous visa refusal or drug-taking.
However, Simon Nugent, ITAA chief executive, said those who are turned down will need to apply for a visa which takes time.
“Many Irish travellers tend to leave formalities to the last minute,” he said.
He recommended that people apply online even if they are not sure they are flying to the US in 2009. “Once your ESTA is approved it will be valid for two years or until your passport expires, allowing you to travel back and forth to the US freely.”
All travellers from the 33 visa waiver programme countries, including Ireland, need to apply on the ESTA website in advance. The website address is: www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/ id_visa/esta/
