U.S. shrinking loophole in visa-waiver program
by Spencer S. Hsu and Sholnn Freeman - Jun. 4, 2008 12:00 AM
Washington Post
WASHINGTON - Residents of 27 friendly nations who can travel to the United States without a visa will be required to register online with the U.S. government at least 72 hours before departure starting in January, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said Tuesday.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization continues a trend after Sept. 11, 2001, of tightened security for residents of countries in the Visa Waiver Program, which includes 22 European nations, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Brunei.



U.S. officials say the change will shrink a security loophole. U.S. customs and border authorities already receive electronic passenger-manifest information from airlines 15 minutes after departure on U.S.-bound flights.

But screeners can use the added time and information to conduct more-thorough checks and keep unwanted persons from boarding planes and ships.

The new rule requires travelers to submit information electronically that they now fill out on I-94W paper forms en route to the United States. Travelers who can not access a U.S. government Web site may register through travel agents or airline Web sites.

Authorization will be valid for multiple entries over two years. Travelers can begin voluntarily registering Aug. 1. People who are rejected may visit a U.S. consulate to apply for a visa.

Mike McConnell, U.S. director of national intelligence, testified last year that al-Qaida was recruiting Europeans because they do not require a visa to enter the United States, comments echoed by CIA and FBI leaders.






http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/ ... a0604.html