The United States government has recently announced an important update regarding entry requirements for citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries. Starting from October 1st, 2022, all VWP travelers entering the United States by land will be required to obtain a US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

Key Points:

• Visa-exempt travelers from VWP countries can still enter the US by land without a visa.
• However, they must possess a valid ESTA for entry via land borders.
• The ESTA grants permission for business or tourism purposes and allows a maximum stay of 90 days.
• Previously, ESTA was mandatory for air and sea arrivals since 2008. Now, it applies to land entry as well.
• The new mandatory ESTA for land entry replaces the I-94W form (Non-immigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Record) currently required at northern and southern land borders.
• According to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), this rule aims to create a consistent and modern VWP admission policy, enhance traveler vetting for national security, streamline entry processing at land ports of entry, facilitate electronic collection of Form I-94W information, and reduce the need for inadmissible traveler inspections. These measures will generate time and cost savings for both CBP and VWP travelers.

Ensure that you obtain your ESTA before traveling to the United States via land to comply with the new entry requirements and facilitate a smooth and efficient border crossing process.

Who Requires ESTA for Entry into the US via Land?

All citizens of Visa Waiver Program nations now need to show an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to enter the United States at a border crossing. This travel authorization is mandatory for individuals from these countries, even though they do not require a visa to cross the US border.

For citizens of non-Visa Waiver Program nations, the entry requirements for their respective countries of citizenship apply. Typically, this involves obtaining a US visa in order to cross the border.

Entry requirements for US land border crossing:

1. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program nations must have an approved ESTA.
2. Citizens of non-Visa Waiver Program nations need to obtain a US visa.

To obtain an ESTA for land travel to the US, individuals must follow the online application process provided by the US Department of Homeland Security. The ESTA application requires personal information, travel details, and security-related questions. Once submitted, the application is reviewed, and upon approval, the traveler receives an ESTA confirmation.

It's important to note that the same ESTA can be used for entry into the United States by land

Do Canadians Need ESTA to Cross the US-Canada Land Border?

Canadians have the advantage of visa exemption when entering the United States. 

• Canadians enjoy visa exemption when visiting the United States.
• They do not need to apply for a visa before traveling.
• Canadian visitors are also exempt from obtaining an ESTA.
• This policy allows Canadians to enter the US without a visa or ESTA travel authorization.

How to Obtain ESTA for Traveling to the US via Land

The process for obtaining an ESTA for land entry into the US is the same as for air or sea travel. Visitors who plan to enter the country by land must ensure they have a valid ESTA before their arrival.

• Applying online: Visitors can conveniently apply for the US ESTA online, making the process quick and easy.
• Timely application: It is recommended that travelers request their travel authorization at least 72 hours prior to their departure to account for any potential delays.

Remember, having a valid ESTA is essential for visitors intending to enter the US by land, and it is crucial to plan ahead and apply in a timely manner to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Is the Same ESTA Valid for Entry by Land, Air, or Sea?

The ESTA travel authorization serves as a unified document for entry into the United States, regardless of the mode of transportation - air, land, or sea. This document streamlines the process and provides convenience for travelers visiting the US.

Overview of the New Rule

Recently, an extension to the existing policy has been implemented, further enhancing the versatility of the ESTA travel authorization. This rule now encompasses all ports of entry into the US, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers, irrespective of their chosen entry point.

Multiple Entries with a Single Document

One of the notable advantages of the US ESTA is its validity for multiple entries into the country. Holders of this authorization can utilize the same document to enter the United States through numerous border crossings, as long as it has not expired. This eliminates the need to obtain separate travel authorizations for each entry, saving time and effort for frequent visitors.

Points to remember about the ESTA travel authorization:

1. The ESTA document is accepted for entry by air, land, or sea.
2. The recent extension to the policy covers all ports of entry into the US.
3. The US ESTA is valid for multiple entries.
4. Travelers can use the same document for entry through various border crossings.
5. Ensure that the ESTA has not expired before using it for entry.

Remember, the ESTA travel authorization simplifies the entry process and offers flexibility to frequent travelers visiting the United States.