US travel warning – Brits pay extra on hols from tomorrow & how to avoid charge

TRAVELLING to the US is about to get more expensive, as the price of an Esta rises by 50 per cent tomorrow. 

The Esta, short for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is the visa-waver that most Brits use to enter America on holiday. 

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The cost will increase from $14 (£11) to $21 (£17) on Thursday, May 26. 

But because the Esta lasts for two years, anyone expecting to travel in the next 24 months could apply today to avoid the extra charge. 

The ESTA was introduced in 2007 and currently costs $14 (£11).

It’s mandatory for visitors to the US – such as Brits using British passports – travelling under the Visa Waiver Program.

You  also need to apply if you’re transiting through the US.

The document allows visitors to stay in the US for up to 90 days for business or pleasure.

It’s worth nothing that having a valid ESTA does not guarantee you entry into the US as the Customs and Border Protection Officer on arrival has the final say.

Brits travelling to Europe will have to pay for a similar documentation from next year.

The document, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) pass, will come into force in 2023.

Each one, lasting three years, will cost seven euros or about £6, but anyone under the age of 18, or over the age of 70, will not need to pay the fee.

The ETIAS must be applied for online prior to arrival to the EU, with everyone, regardless of age, needing to apply to visit EU countries. 

95 per cent of applications will be expected to receive a decision within minutes of submission, but if extra documentation is required it could take up to four weeks.

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