"September 2, 2010, 2:00 pm
U.S. to Add Fee for Travelers From Visa-Waiver Countries
By DAN SALTZSTEIN
Visitors traveling to the United States from the 36 countries that participate in the Customs and Border Protection’s visa-waiver program currently have to fill out an online form called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, prior to entry. Starting on Sept. 8, that registration process will require a $14 fee, paid by credit or debit card.
ESTA approval, which went into effect in early 2009, allows travelers to enter the United States without a full travel visa, which can cost over $100. The ESTA authorization lasts for two years (or until the individual’s passport expires), and is valid for multiple entries.
This creates another potential roadblock for visitors from ESTA-participating countries, who will now need both Internet access and a MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover card (or a debit card within those networks). (The C.B.P. says it is looking into expanding to other forms of payment.) "
Not my article! Please check out the source of this article at the New York Times travel blog
