On 12 January 2009 the United States introduced a new electronic visa waiver system that requires all New Zealanders (and many others) planning to travel to the United States for less than 90 days for business or tourism without a visa to obtain an on-line travel authorisation before they go. With effect from 20 January 2010 it is fully mandatory.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a web-based automatic question and answer system that can determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme. All nationals or citizens from Visa Waiver Programme countries, including New Zealand, will need an ESTA travel authorisation before they board a plane or cruise ship destined for the United States. You should allow 72 hours for authorisation, though it is usually quicker. Be sure to take note of your ESTA number and take it with you to the departure location.  

For further information about the new travel authorisation for the United States go the DHS ESTA website.  Follow the instructions to submit an on-line application for an automatic travel authorisation. If the application fails, travellers will need to contact their nearest US Consulate to obtain a visa. There is currently no fee – but a small fee may be introduced at some point. Make sure you are on the official website as some unauthorised sites are charging high fees.