My Holiday Expert

Travellers to the US will soon have to pay a $10 charge to use the Esta (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) online immigration system after a key law was signed into law by US President Barack Obama.

The Travel Promotion Act clears the way for the creation of a new organisation to promote the US as a destination around the world.

This will be partly funded by the introduction of the $10 fee to use the Esta immigration form which all travellers have to fill in online at least 72 hours before travelling to the US. The Visit USA Association has said that the charge for Esta may rise to $15-$17 once credit charges and administration costs are added.

Roger Dow, president and chief executive officer of the US Travel Association, said: “By signing the Travel Promotion Act, President Obama has acted to support the power of travel to serve as an economic stimulant, job generator and diplomatic tool.

“This program will create tens of thousands of American jobs and help reverse negative perceptions about travel to the US.”