Please be advised that from 9 September 2010, UK travellers looking to enter the United States will be charged £9 ($14) to apply for the compulsory ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). This charge will affect Leap volunteers whose flight routing goes via the USA (i.e. some Costa Rica, Ecuador, Argentina and Venezuela teams).

Previously a free service brought in by the American government to save time at immigration control and tighten security this move has angered many foreign governments and independent travellers who see the move as a ‘tax on tourism’. We have been advised that of the $14 fee, $10 will go towards promoting US tourism, while the other $4 will cover administration fees.

Payment options for ESTA applications are limited to credit or debit cards. The following credit/debit cards will be accepted: MasterCard, VISA, American Express, and Discover. If you are unable to access the Internet, you may also have a third party (relative or travel agent) pay the required fee online on your behalf.

Advice about ESTAs and other visa requirements for each Leap destination can be found in MY LEAP.