ESTA - New Charges

We have previously given you some informed advice about the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Up until now the ESTA has been free, but as expected, the U.S. Government has decided to charge $14 for each ESTA, commencing September 8, 2010. This money will go towards promoting the U.S.A. as a travel destination around the world.

If you are planning a trip to the U.S. anytime in the next 2 years, you can save a little money if you complete the ESTA beforet this date. You don’t have to have a trip booked to complete the ESTA and it is valid for two years or until your passport expires if that is sooner. Applications are simple, but do be careful to use the official site, not one of the bogus sites that may charge now, or charge more once the fee is online. The correct website is this: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.

Save more money by using a Zero percentage Credit card, that doesn’t charge you a percentage on your exchange when paying foreign currency!

Posted on 10 August 2010