New US Entry Requirements

The US Department of Homeland Security has announced changes to the Visa Waiver Programme that will affect New Zealand nationals wishing to travel to the United States from 12 January 2009.

From this date all New Zealand nationals must receive an electronic travel authorisation prior to boarding a US bound airplane or cruise ship. Applications must be made online as soon as an applicant begins planning a US bound trip, and not less than 72 hours prior to travel.

Applications can be made from 1 August 2008 at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Read more about the new system here (Fact Sheet provided by the Department of Homeland Security)

Read Frequently Asked Questions here (FAQ's provided by the Department of Homeland Security)