I have been called by a customer who advised me that she hadn't applied for her ESTA and when she got to the States they still allowed her in!
This is reassuring that she wasn't turned back as it is a new system and I'm sure there are travellers who don't realise that they now need one. However I wouldn't advise that you try to travel without one, in order to avoid the charge, US officials are not normally known for their leniency.
I have also been told by a number of people that the ESTA isn't cutting down the waiting times upon arrival to the States which is a shame. It seems this immigration queues are as long as ever.
Never ever fool with the American Officials.
ReplyDeleteThey might cut you some slack but it would be the individual.
Problem with these forms are that they might look for your entry when you leave and all of a sudden you have a hole to explain.
As you say , it is new but still a Visa requirement prior to leaving. Surprised when ones fills in the profile for the airline at least 72 hours prior one is not asked..
Have a great day Jo...
/Rob