Aug 25, 2010
New Electronic System for Travel Authorization Fee for Visa Waiver Program Travelers Takes Effect September 8 

The Department of State (DOS) has just posted a cable providing clarification on the Travel Promotion Act of 2009 (TPA), a new rule that would require travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries to pay operational and travel promotion fees when applying for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The interim final rule, which goes into effect September 8, 2010, will include these fees in the ESTA program, which total $14. The fees, matched by private sector contributions, will be used to fund the Corporation for Travel Promotion.

Payment of the new $14 fee is required through credit or debit card payments. The ESTA form that is currently in use provides detailed information to aid in the payment process.

The goal of the TPA is to attract international visitors to the United States. DOS will work with the Corporation for Travel Promotion to provide comprehensive and up-to-date information to international visitors about travel documents and various requirements for entry into the United States.