News Update - November 14, 2009
By Alan Lee, Esq.†‡
When Completing Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) Forms, All 221(g) Notices Count as Visa Denial
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and the Department of State, travelers from Visa Waiver countries have to fill out ESTA forms before they depart for the U.S. Anyone who has received a 221(g) notice in the mail must answer “yes” to the question “Have you ever been denied a U.S. visa or entry to the U.S. or had a U.S. visa canceled?” This applies even if the 221(g) notice was for additional evidence or further review. A detailed explanation of the reason you were issued a 221(g) notice should be given in the space provided. Failure to accurately answer may lead to denied entry or accusations of fraud. ESTA applications are online at www.cbp.gov/esta. Decisions are usually made within 72 hours. Case status can be checked online. If there is no decision after 72 hours, it may be necessary to reapply.
Visa Waiver Countries:
Andorra |
Iceland |
Norway |
Australia |
Ireland |
Portugal |
Austria |
Italy |
San Marino |
Belgium |
Japan |
Singapore |
Brunei |
Latvia |
Slovakia |
Czech Republic |
Liechtenstein |
Slovenia |
Denmark |
Lithuania |
South Korea |
Estonia |
Luxembourg |
Spain |
Finland |
Malta |
Sweden |
France |
Monaco |
Switzerland |
Germany |
the Netherlands |
United Kingdom |
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