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• Transportation Security
• Visa Waiver Program
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

Visa Waiver Program travelers are required to apply for and receive an approved travel authorization via ESTA to board a plane or vessel bound for the United States. (A travel authorization via ESTA is not a guarantee of admission into the United States. Travelers must establish their eligibility for the program during inspection by an officer at a port of entry.)

In most instances, ESTA applicants will receive real-time notification on the status of their application to travel to the United States. Applicants denied an ESTA will be advised to apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.

For more information, and to apply for a travel authorization, see ESTA .

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

Find out the requirements for ESTA

If you are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must meet the eligibility requirements to travel to the U.S. under the program. You will also need authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before beginning your trip. Learn about the VWP and ESTA and if your country participates in the program.

How to request a travel authorization to the U.S. through ESTA

If you find out your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program:

Confirm that your passport meets the program requirements. You must have an  electronic passport or “e-Passport”  to participate in the VWP. This type of passport includes a chip.

Complete the  ESTA application  online.

Pay the fees: The total cost is $21. When you apply, you will pay a $4 processing fee. If you are approved to travel to the U.S., you must pay an additional $17 authorization fee.  Learn about the payment options available to pay ESTA fees.

When you complete and submit the form and processing fee, you will get an ESTA application number. Use that number to  check the status of your application . It may take up to 72 hours to find out if you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.

Each approved ESTA application is generally valid for two years and allows multiple visits to the U.S. within that period without having to apply for another travel approval. If your passport expires in less than two years, you will receive an ESTA approval valid until the passport's expiration date.

When you travel to the U.S. for tourism or business under the VWP, you may stay up to 90 days per visit.

If you have questions about the ESTA and VWP application process, visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) FAQ page .

Other travel documents you will need to enter the U.S.

Even if you qualify for the VWP, you will need to bring a passport from your country of citizenship to enter the U.S. Generally, a visitor’s passport must not expire less than six months from the date they plan to exit the U.S. But some countries extend the validity of their passports for an additional six months after expiration. They are known as being part of the “Six Month Club.” Learn which countries are exempt from the six-month passport rule.

When you enter the U.S., officials at your port of entry will issue you a Form I-94W, an electronic record of your entry date. Learn more about I-94W and how to apply.

LAST UPDATED: June 18, 2024

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What to know about the US ESTA 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it costs

If you're traveling to the U.S. any time soon and you're a citizen of the United Kingdom or Europe, it's quite likely that you'll need to apply for an ESTA before you visit.

Short for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, applying for an ESTA might seem daunting if you've never done it before. Don't worry — we have you covered.

Below we break down everything you need to know about applying for an ESTA, from how much it will cost and approval times to when you should renew it and when you need to consider applying for one.

Related: What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost

What is the ESTA 'visa'?

An ESTA is an automated part of the Visa Waiver Program that allows visitors from specific countries to visit the U.S. Visitors must be citizens of countries classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver list to be eligible for an ESTA application. Currently, 40 countries are included on the list, including the U.K. and much of Europe.

ESTA holders can visit the U.S. for a period of 90 days or less without the need to apply for a standard visa if their visit is either a vacation or a business trip.

ESTA was initially rolled out by the U.S. in 2008 to allow the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Borders Protection to use authorized databases to pre-screen visitors to the country. It also allows the easier identification of terrorists, criminals and banned flyers, and is designed to help prevent such people from entering the country. It can also help identify those who may be a risk for overstaying their visits.

Is an ESTA a visa?

No, an ESTA is not a traditional visa and instead is classed as a visa waiver. As such, the application process is much more straightforward than applying for a traditional visa, and eligible travelers can do so by filling out a short online application on ESTA's official website.

The form requires applicants to share basic personal information, travel history and other simple security questions. Applications are usually processed within 72 hours.

Who needs to apply for an ESTA?

You'll need to apply for an ESTA if you are a citizen of a country classed as part of the U.S. visa waiver program, which includes the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, among others. You can view the full list of the 40 eligible countries on the DHS website .

If you are visiting the U.S. from one of these countries as part of a vacation or business trip that is set to last for 90 days or less — and you are arriving by either plane or cruise ship — you can apply for an ESTA.

If you already hold a visa for visiting the U.S., you do not need to also apply for an ESTA. Additionally, if you are only briefly stopping in the U.S. to catch a connecting flight or ship before moving on to your final destination, know that you will still be required to apply for an ESTA, regardless of how brief your stay is.

How much does an ESTA cost?

The ESTA application fee is $21; you can pay this fee online after filling out your application form. The fee was increased from $14 in May 2023, and its current pricing will remain in effect until September 2027.

Valid payment methods include:

• American Express
• Discover (JCB or Diners Club only)

Your application will not be submitted for approval until your payment has been received.

How do you apply for an ESTA?

You can only apply for an ESTA online. Find the official site here .

You will be asked to accept various terms and upload an image of your passport during your application. After uploading an image of your passport, you will also be asked to share your passport information, valid email address and other standard personal details, along with information regarding your upcoming and previous travel history.

If applicable, you may also be required to share details about your employment; aliases or other names; a national ID or personal ID number; your Global Entry, Nexus or Sentri ID number; and the name, addresses or phone number for any U.S. points of contact.

When do I need to apply for an ESTA?

Your ESTA application can be submitted at any time before you travel to the U.S. However, the DHS advises you to apply at least 72 hours before travel to allow time for processing ahead of departure.

How long does an ESTA application take to be approved?

In TPG's experience, an ESTA application can often be approved on the same day you apply, though it can sometimes take up to 72 hours to be processed. We recommend applying at least a week or two before traveling to allow time for the application to be approved.

How long is an ESTA valid for, and will I need to apply for each trip to the US?

Once approved, your ESTA will be valid for two years from the date it was authorized or until the date your passport expires — depending on which comes first. You will not be required to apply for a new ESTA for each subsequent visit to the U.S. as long as any trips fall within the two-year validity period.

If you acquire a new passport or change your name, sex or citizenship after having your ESTA approved, you must submit a new application for approval.

How can I check my ESTA status?

If you have applied for an ESTA and want to check its status, you can do so by visiting the ESTA website and selecting "Check ESTA Status."

If you are checking your own application, click "Check Individual Status." You will then be asked to supply either your passport number, date of birth and application number or your country of citizenship and passport issue and expiration dates.

To check the status of a group application, click "Check Group Status." From here, you will be asked to supply your group ID, family name, first (given) name, email and date of birth of your group's point of contact.

You will then be able to see the current status of your ESTA, which will fall into one of three categories:

• Authorization Approved — meaning your application was successful, and you are authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Travel Not Authorized — meaning your application was unsuccessful, and you're not authorized to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program
• Authorization Pending — Your travel authorization is still under review and should usually be determined within 72 hours

Note that while in most cases you will be fine entering the U.S. once your application is approved, having an ESTA alone does not guarantee admission. Your final entry will be at the discretion of the CBP officer at your destination.

Bottom line

If you are traveling to the U.S. from the U.K. or other countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure if you are not already approved.

Your ESTA will cost $21 and will be valid for two years from its authorization date. If you already have an ESTA, it's wise to check its status before any trips to the U.S. to ensure it's still valid.

Related reading:

• What to know about the ETIAS 'visa' — when to get it, how to apply and how much it will cost
• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or an expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases

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ESTA - How long is my ESTA approved for?

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Visiting USA with a B-2 Tourist Visa or Travel Authorization (ESTA)

All foreigners visiting the United States of America need to hold a valid visa or travel authorization (ESTA) unless they are green card holders. While a visa is issued by a US embassy, the travel authorization is applied for an issued online. The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) serves as an online platform designed to facilitate the application process for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. For individuals planning to travel to the USA via air or sea, obtaining travel authorisation through ESTA is a prerequisite before embarking on their journey.

What are the requirements to apply for an ESTA?

Eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program is exclusive to citizens from 41 qualifying countries. To secure travel authorisation, an ESTA application must be duly completed. Additionally, a biometric passport featuring a microchip and the relevant symbol on its cover is mandatory. The Visa Waiver Program permits stays of up to 90 days, encompassing purposes such as tourism, business, transit, healthcare, or participation in non-credited study programs.

It is recommended that travellers apply for ESTA prior to making any hotel or flight reservations, as there may be a need for a full visa. Once your ESTA application receives approval, you have the option to update it with final itinerary details before your departure

The 41 Visa Waiver Program Member Countries:

Checklist for visiting the United States of America

• Valid Passport
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• Itinerary and accommodation details
• Emergency Contacts
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U.S. Immigration Support is managed and operated by a U.S.-licensed law firm, ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL. Our mission is to help immigrants and travelers through the complex United States immigration system with our do-it-yourself immigration guides and travel authorization consultancy. We are not affiliated with the United States government. All applicants can apply directly at uscis.gov or travel.state.gov without our assistance. U.S. Immigration Support is owned by ETAS TRAVEL LLC, and managed by ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL.

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Who are we?

Apply for online travel permits processed by a law firm licensed in the United States.

About David Adler, Esq.

Legal Counsel of ETAS Travel LLC

David is the legal counsel of ETAS Travel LLC, a company that specializes in immigration to the United States, including short-term electronic visitor visas, long-term visitor visas, work visas, green cards and citizenship, and immigration through investment.

Since 1997, David Adler has managed a boutique law practice focused on Entertainment, Media and Communications, providing advice to business units and executives on rights creation and enforcement, commercializing inventions, contracts and licenses, securities laws, and corporate governance.

David has been peer-designated as an Illinois Leading Lawyer and an Illinois SuperLawyer®. David occasionally writes and his articles also appear in State Bar journals and trade journals.

David is licensed in Illinois, a member of the Illinois State Bar, Federal General Bar and Federal Trial Bar, and Secretary of the Illinois State Bar Association Privacy and Information Security Section. He taught Music Law at DePaul Law (Law ’97) and Art & Entertainment Law at Columbia College Chicago.

How we can help you

Our mission is to make the American experience accessible to people worldwide. In today's digital age, we can provide the services of licensed U.S. immigration attorneys at an extremely affordable cost. We aim to provide an unmatched customer experience. In a setting where legal services can be hard to come by, we ensure that each application is handled by a dedicated case manager who will address your inquiries in depth. Our objective is to deliver the highest level of customer service, assigning a case manager to each application to respond to all your questions comprehensively.

At ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL , we pride ourselves on our commitment to accessibility and excellence in legal services. With our multilingual team of dedicated professionals, we ensure that language is never a barrier to justice. Our round-the-clock customer service exemplifies our dedication to serving our clients' needs whenever they arise. Whether you need legal advice, assistance, or representation, our diverse and responsive team is here for you at any hour, in any language. Trust ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL to provide unparalleled legal support tailored to your unique needs, backed by our unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and success.

• Operated by a U.S. Law Firm
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How can you reach us?

We take all requests seriously and welcome suggestions for ways to improve any of our processing services. You can contact us by completing the contact form on this webpage.

If you require assistance with an existing travel document that you have submitted to us, please send us a message via the contact form, including the following information:

[email protected]

• The applicant’s full name
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• The final four digits of the card was used

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Changes in this Privacy Statement If we decide to change our Privacy Policy, we will post those changes to this privacy statement, the home page, and other places we deem appropriate so that you are aware of what information we collect, how we use it, and under what circumstances, if any, we disclose it. We reserve the right to modify this privacy statement at any time, so please review it frequently. If we make material changes to this policy, we will notify you here, by email, or by means of a notice on our home page.

Contact our Legal Department Email us at [email protected] for further assistance.

Last updated:  May 7th, 2024

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Terms & Conditions

About this website

This website is not affiliated with the United States Government. U.S. Immigration Support is managed and operated by a U.S.-licensed law firm, ETAS TRAVEL LEGAL. Our mission is to help immigrants and travelers through the complex United States immigration system with our do-it-yourself immigration guides and travel authorization consultancy. All applicants can apply directly at uscis.gov or travel.state.gov without our assistance. There are disclaimers located on the footer of every page of this website.

Our Products & Services

* 1. eBooks:  U.S. Immigration Support offers downloadable immigration guides in eBook format (as PDF files). All eBooks available on our website are published by US Immigration Support, not by the USCIS or any United States government agency. Our Immigration eBooks are designed for information purposes only, and should not be considered legal advice. * 2. eVisas:  U.S. Immigration Support offers an eVisa application service to citizens of countries who qualify for the United States Visa Waiver Program.

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* 1. eBooks: Available for download immediately after card approval. * 2. eVisas: eVisa applications are processed immediately after they are received. However, it can take the up to 3 days for the U.S. government to review the application. Once your application is approved, you will receive it via email. If you application is not approved, you will be notified, and you will not have to pay any fees related to the application.

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All products and services purchased from this website are fully refundable within the 90 days of the date of purchase. The request for a refund must be to submitted within 90 days from the day the order was received. U.S. Immigration Support reserves the right to not issue a refund if the request is received after 90 days from the date of purchase. Refunds for card transactions are issued within 2 business days. Please be aware that it can take up to 5 business days for the transaction to actually post to your account. If you have any questions with regards to your order, please contact our customer service department. If you wish to cancel your order, please contact us with the reasons for the cancellation request. You should not contact your card company or bank to file a dispute, as this will only delay the refund process.

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In the event that a U.S. Immigration Support product or service is mistakenly listed at an incorrect price, we reserve the right to refuse or cancel any orders listed at the incorrect price. U.S. Immigration Support reserves the right to refuse or cancel any such orders whether or not the order has been confirmed and your card charged. In the event your card has been charged, a full refund will be issued in the amount of the incorrect price.

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• Entering and staying in the UK

Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA)

Information on who can get an ETA and how to apply before coming to the UK.

An ETA gives you permission to travel to the UK.

Who can apply

You can apply now if you’re a national of:

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

You must be a national of one of these countries and travel using a national passport. You cannot use other types of passports or travel documents.

Who does not need an  ETA

If you’re a national of another country, you do not currently need an  ETA .

More nationalities will be able to apply later. We will add these to this page in advance, to give you enough time to plan your travel. Get emails about this page to find out when more nationalities are added.

You also do not need an  ETA  if you have either:

• permission to live, work or study in the UK
• a British or Irish passport
• a British overseas territories passport

You do not need an  ETA  if  you live in Ireland and you’re travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man .

What you can do with an  ETA

You can get an  ETA  instead of a visa if you’re:

• coming to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study
• coming to the UK for up to 3 months on the  Creative Worker visa concession
• coming to the UK for a permitted paid engagement
• transiting through the UK  – including if you’re not going through UK border control

If you’re coming to the UK for another reason,  check if you need a visa instead .

How much it costs

It costs £10 to apply. Everyone travelling needs to get an ETA , including babies and children. You can apply for other people.

You cannot get a refund after you apply.

Before you start

• the passport you’ll travel with - not a photocopy
• access to your emails
• a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay

You’ll need to upload or take photos of the:

• face of the person applying

You do not need to enter your travel details.

Apply for an ETA

The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app.

Download on the App Store

Download on Google Play

Help with the app

You can read the guide on using the UK ETA app .

If you cannot use the app

You can apply online .

If you’re applying for someone else who’s not with you, you should apply online.

How long it takes

You’ll usually get a decision within 3 working days, but you may get a quicker decision.

Occasionally, it may take longer than 3 working days.

Group applications

Each person must apply separately.

You may get a decision at a different time from someone else in your group - even if you applied at the same time.

If you need to travel soon

You must apply for an ETA before you travel to the UK. You can travel to the UK while waiting for a decision.

After you apply

You’ll get an email confirming you’ve got an ETA . We’ll link it to the passport you applied with.

Your ETA lasts for 2 years. You can travel to the UK as many times as you want during that time.

If you get a new passport, you’ll need to get a new ETA.

You still need to see a Border Force officer to enter the UK .

An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.

You can ask about ETA if you need help.

You can also watch videos on:

• what an ETA is
• how to apply for a UK ETA

British overseas territories passport holders do not need an ETA.

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USA ESTA Frequently Asked Questions

Please note that as of June 2022 the CDC no longer requires travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery from COVID pre arrival to the US

Many countries around the world have to apply for an Embassy Visa in order to get valid entry into the US. However, some nations are exempt from this visa. That happens because their country is named under a visa-waiver system called ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

The ESTA is a popular program that permits certain citizens to enter the United States by having just an online document linked to their passport. This document is available through an online application form , meaning that they don’t need to visit an embassy to get it.

The first thing you have to do before applying for this document is to check your eligibility, which is possible if you visit iVisa.com . On our homepage, you’ll be able to use our visa tool, and therefore, see if you can apply for the ESTA or not.

We’ve prepared this article with the most common questions about this document. You can see the USA ESTA Frequently Asked Questions below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need an esta to enter the united states.

There are a few nationalities that can apply for an ESTA . To check if you're entitled to easy entry this way, you can use the Visa Checker by clicking here , then just choose your country of origin along with the United States as your destination and see the information displayed.

WHAT IS THE US ESTA?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a computerized visa waiver program that helps the official authorities to see if the traveler can enter the US or not. The difference between this ESTA and the Paper Visa is that you only have to apply for the ESTA through an online form , and not by going to the embassy. It’s actually a lot easier.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE ESTA AND A VISA?

You should know that the ESTA is not a visa- it’s more like a visa waiver. Those who possess a valid visa will still be able to go to the United States. Travelers with valid visas don’t need to submit an application for an ESTA.

HOW LONG CAN PEOPLE REMAIN IN THE US WITH AN ESTA?

The ESTA allows a maximum stay of 90 days Per Entry with Multiple Entry.

WHAT DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR A US ESTA?

As long as you use iVisa.com , you’ll only need this list of items:

• The passport, which has to be electronic with a digital chip comprising biometric info.
• This passport should also be at least valid for 6 months from the date of entrance.
• You have to provide your passport number and Personal Identification Number (PIN).
• You need an email address to receive the ESTA.
• Lastly, a Paypal account or debit/credit card for payments.

WHAT ARE THE PROCESSING TIMES AND PRICES?

The ESTA isn’t free, and we know that pricing is important for you. With iVisa.com, you have three options related to processing times and pricing. The three choices are:

• Standard processing: you can receive your ESTA in 24 hours, and also the cost is USD 29.00.
• Rush processing: your ESTA will be ready in 4 hours, and the entire cost of it is USD 59.00.
• Super rush processing: this is the quickest option. You'll obtain your ESTA in just 30 minutes, but with a total of USD 79.00.

Click here if you’re ready to apply for this document with iVisa.com.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR AN ESTA?

The application we’ve designed is quite smooth and straightforward. It has just three steps:

• Step one will ask you to offer your basic details. Plus, you’ll have to pick the processing time from the choices mentioned above.
• The next step is based on reviewing your answers, so make sure that your info is correct before paying for the document.
• The final step is to attach some documents if necessary. If you don’t have any to upload, you can simply click on ‘submit’.

Are you ready to start? Click here . Submit your form once you're ready and wait for your ESTA that will be delivered via email. In case you need assistance while completing your application, iVisa.com’s customized service includes access to a fantastic support service that you can chat to online at any time of the day.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I FINISH MY APPLICATION?

Once you send the online form for your application, you'll get the ESTA by email. You don’t need to visit the US embassy. Remember that we contact the US authorities directly so you can receive your document on time.

WHEN WILL I HAVE TO RE-APPLY FOR THE US ESTA?

The US ESTA will, for the large part, be allowed for a period of (2) years or until the candidate's passport expires. Your US ESTA will show until what date it’s valid. So remember you have to make an application for a new ESTA when your previous ESTA expired or when you have an expired passport.

EXACTLY WHAT WILL A US ESTA SEEM LIKE?

WHEN SHOULD I OBTAIN A VISA TO TRAVEL TO THE USA?

• If you arrive in the USA via International airport.
• When you visit the USA for over 90 days.
• If you're traveling to the USA for a purpose other than short-term tourism or business.

DOES THE ESTA GUARANTEE ENTRANCE INTO THE USA?

If the ESTA is accepted, it states that you can travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program, but it doesn't ensure that you’ll be admitted to the United States. Once you arrive in the USA, you'll be examined by an Immigration officer that will determine your admission.

WHAT DO I DO IF I MAKE AN ERROR IN MY APPLICATION?

If you make a mistake when you enter your data online then please contact our customer service agents via online chat to assist you. If we already submitted your application for your ESTA, then you can't make any adjustments and you’ll have to apply again.

IS IT SECURE TO USE iVisa.COM TO RECEIVE MY ESTA?

Many people feel that online information can be leaked easily, meaning that their private details can be put in danger very fast. It might be true with some websites, but that’s not the case with our services. Maximum safety is our top priority, and we also invest a lot in our database's protection. Your personal information is always protected with us. If you have doubts about it, check our reviews here .

I HAVE MORE UNRESOLVED QUESTIONS, WHERE DO I FIND MORE INFO?

For a quicker resolution to your queries about the US ESTA or personal assistance, click here . You’re free to check other questions here as well.

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Electronic travel authorization

This is the Government of Canada’s official web page to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. It only costs CAN$7 . Find out what it is and how to apply online.

The Government of Canada will perform updates to its online system from 11:30 pm to 6:30 am ET on June 10, 2024 . The eTA application form will not be available at that time. We apologize for the inconvenience. To apply for an eTA, please return after 6:30 am ET on June 10 .

The eTA system is currently down. We are working to resolve the issue. Thank you for your patience.

The eTA system is experiencing delays. We are working to resolve this issue. Thank you for your patience.

As of 11:30 p.m. ET on February 29, 2024,

• you need to meet new requirements to be eligible for an eTA
• if you had an eTA before 11:30 p.m. ET on February 29, 2024, it has been cancelled unless you also have a valid work or study permit
• if you have an eTA application in progress at the time, you need to apply for a new eTA or for a visitor visa
• before you travel to Canada, you need to apply for a new eTA if you’re eligible
• if you’re no longer eligible for an eTA, you need to apply for a visitor visa to travel to Canada

Learn more about the new requirements .

Most requested

• Find out what you need to travel to Canada
• I’m visiting the US and want to visit Canada. Do I need an eTA?

Apply online for an eTA

To apply, you must have a valid passport, a credit or a debit card and an email address, and you must answer a few questions in the online application.

What to do after you apply

What to expect if we need more details from you, and things to keep in mind after you receive an eTA

Dual Canadian citizens need a Canadian passport

How to apply for a passport, and why you need a passport and not an eTA for travel to or through Canada

Check your eTA status

Get online updates on pending applications as well as information on the status of your current eTA

Flying to Canada?

Find out how easy it is to apply online. Learn how to get your eTA before you book your flight to Canada.

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Hurricane Beryl, now Cat 4, targets Jamaica with ferocious winds: Live updates

Editor's note: This page reflects news on Hurricane Beryl from Tuesday, July 2. For the latest news on Hurricane Beryl , which is now a Category 4 storm, please follow USA TODAY's live updates on the storm for Wednesday, July 3 .

Hurricane Beryl weakened slightly Tuesday into a Category 4 storm − from the monster Category 5 it became overnight − as it pushed farther into the Caribbean Sea, homing in on Jamaica and triggering warnings and advisories across Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the Cayman Islands.

Beryl made landfall on Carriacou Island in Grenada as a Category 4 on Monday with 150-mph winds, causing at least three deaths and devastating Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The fast-moving storm then regained strength over the Caribbean Sea, and on Monday night it became the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record.

The National Hurricane Center said in its 11 p.m. ET advisory that Beryl had maximum sustained winds of near 150 mph − just 7 mph below the Category 5 threshold and down from 165 mph earlier in the day. But forecasters say Beryl will remain a powerful hurricane this week as it moves on a west-northwest path at almost 22 mph.

Forecasters said the center of Beryl will "move rapidly" across the central Caribbean Sea on Tuesday night before it reaches Jamaica. Beryl is "expected to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica" on Wednesday and to the Cayman Islands that night and into Thursday, the hurricane center said .

The storm surge along the Jamaican coast could be as much as 6 to 9 feet above normal tide levels, according to the hurricane center. As Beryl passes over or near Jamaica, currently about 300 miles east-southeast from the capital Kingston, its winds are forecast to decrease but the danger will remain high.

"Winds are expected to first reach tropical storm strength early on Wednesday,'' the NHC said, "making outside preparations difficult or dangerous."

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness warned residents on Tuesday night "to take the hurricane as a serious threat," and advised people to prepare for potential impacts but to remain calm. Holness added that officials have taken several precautionary measures in anticipation of Beryl.

The hurricane center is forecasting 4 to 8 inches of rain and up to 12 inches in isolated locations of Jamaica and the Barahona Peninsula in the southwest Dominican Republic, which could lead to flash flooding and mudslides.

Hurricane Beryl in photos: See the damage as storm moves through Caribbean

The storm is predicted to pass near or over the Cayman Islands, potentially raising water levels by as much as 2 to 4 feet above normal tide levels and drenching the area with torrential rain. The southern coast of Haiti was placed under a hurricane watch as forecasters warned both Haiti and the Dominican Republic could start to see tropical storm conditions Tuesday.

Elsewhere, residents and visitors in the Cayman Islands, Belize, the Yucatan Peninsula and the Gulf are advised to closely monitor Beryl's path. Additional weakening is expected later in the week, though Beryl is forecast to remain a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean.

Hurricane Beryl tracker: See projected path of storm

Developments:

∎ Officials in Mexico and Belize have issued advisories for parts of their countries, according to the National Hurricane Center. In Mexico, the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is under hurricane watch while Belize issued a tropical storm watch from the south of Chetumal to Belize City.

∎ Winds gusted into the high 40s in Puerto Rico on Tuesday morning, while a gust of up to 54 mph was reported at Buck Island in the Virgin Islands.

∎ Swells capable of life-threatening surf and rip current conditions are expected to reach the southern coasts of Puerto Rico and Hispaniola on Tuesday afternoon, the NHC said.

∎ Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados announced on its website that it's resuming operations after it closed on Sunday before Beryl caused considerable damage across the island.

∎ Jamaica's government has issued a hurricane warning for the island country, while tropical storm warnings were in effect for parts of the southern Dominican Republic. Tropical storm conditions are expected in the warning area along the south coast of Hispaniola by late Tuesday, the hurricane center said.

President Biden is monitoring Hurricane Beryl, White House says

In a statement posted on X , the White House said President Joe Biden is “closely monitoring” Hurricane Beryl and his administration is poised to assist Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the region.

The statement added that Biden has been in contact with officials on the ground, including those with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the National Weather Service said Beryl's impacts were minimal. However, coastal flood and high surf advisories will remain in southern Puerto Rico for another night.

Will Hurricane Beryl hit Texas, the US Gulf Coast?

As Hurricane Beryl heads across the Caribbean Sea after tearing through the Windward Islands, impacts on the U.S. and Gulf Coast remain unclear. There is still no consensus among the forecast models for the path Beryl could take after it crosses the Yucatan Peninsula and emerges in the Gulf of Mexico.

The models don't agree on the strength or location of a possible break in the ridge over the southern United States. Weather Service offices in Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas, still aren't expecting impacts outside ocean conditions by Saturday, but forecasters in both field offices Tuesday morning said they'll be closely monitoring the center's forecast over the next couple of days as the track becomes clearer.

"Folks in the Texas coast, as we go into the holiday weekend, you're going to want to make sure you check back on the forecast and make sure you're ready for any potential impacts,'' National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan said. "If we were to see tropical storm conditions affect those areas in the far western Gulf of Mexico, it could be during the day Saturday."

Because the forecast track puts Beryl in the Bay of Campeche − at the southern end of the gulf − as a tropical storm by Friday night and Saturday morning, a few models are showing an influx of tropical rain starting Saturday afternoon.  

There’s likely going to be "an increasing rainfall threat in Mexico and Texas” by the weekend, said Alex Lamers, chief of the forecast operations branch at the service’s Weather Prediction Center. But there remains “a really high degree of uncertainty in the forecast once you get beyond Saturday.”

Regardless of Beryl's exact track in the gulf, the weather service office in Corpus Christi said the southeast Texas coast also can expect a high risk of rip currents this weekend, and a medium chance for coastal flooding. Six rip-current deaths have already occurred this year along gulf coast beaches, and the weather service is increasingly concerned about the potential for rip currents over a holiday weekend when the beaches will likely be packed.

Embedded content: https://www.usatoday.com/story/graphics/2024/07/02/hurricane-beryl-category-5-records-broken/74273113007/

Ahead of Hurricane Beryl, the streets of Jamaica are 'in pandemonium'

Racquel Layne, a project coordinator with the local disaster relief organization St. Patrick's Rangers, said the streets of Kingston, Jamaica, were chaotic on Tuesday as residents of the capital city braced for what's expected to be the most devastating hurricane to hit the island in 30 years.

"The streets are in pandemonium right now," she told USA TODAY. "I think everybody's doing last-minute shopping and preparation."

Some hurried to fortify their houses against the storm. "You see persons doing repairs on their walls, putting cinder blocks on their roof, getting their sandbags in preparation for Beryl," Layne said.

Layne's organization activated all of its response team members and was in the process of assigning them to specific communities Tuesday. Relief workers had also stockpiled family emergency and shelter kits and prepared community shelters throughout the parishes of Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Thomas and St. Catherine, she said. For 72 hours, "it's been nonstop coordination and preparation and execution of our emergency response plan," she said.

A climate of fear descended in Kingston as Beryl approached, Layne said. "The majority of persons are concerned, they're scared," she said. "They don't know what to expect. They have seen the damage that Beryl has already done in the eastern Caribbean, and they are very anticipatory of what will happen in Jamaica."

Neighbors stick together as Kingston, Jamaica, is in crosshairs

Ian Nicholas and his family spent hours Tuesday securing the roof of their home in the Riverton neighborhood of Kingston, Jamaica, with galvanized wire. The roof, made of zinc, would not fare well against Hurricane Beryl's ferocious winds, he thought.

Nicholas, 34, and his wife Alicia, 31, felt confident they could weather the storm. Their five children were even excited to help out with the roof project. "They don't really understand," he said.

Nicholas recalled going through the same routine ahead of Hurricane Ian several years ago. "I don't know if we're scared. Because we have so many hurricanes, we have more experience," he said.

Regardless, the neighborhood is sticking together ahead of Beryl's arrival. "We encourage each other to prepare, button up roofs and windows," Nicholas said. "We communicate."

Experience informs Hurricane Beryl preparation

Danesha Wilson, 31, still remembers how her mother's house filled with leaking water after Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

This time around in Kingston, Jamaica, she has a solid preparation plan for Hurricane Beryl. "I am currently on the road getting tall bunk lights and candles and stuff. I already have food at the house and water," she told USA TODAY on Tuesday. "I'm going to board up the windows."

Wilson said supermarket shelves in Kingston were cleaned out as people rushed to stock up ahead of Beryl's landfall. "A lot of persons came yesterday and they got rid of everything," she said.

The hurricane could take some financial toll on Wilson's customized gift business by interrupting a peak week for school graduations. "People were going to give customized gifts to the graduates, and they won't be able to get those anymore, because they have to be prepared for a hurricane," she said. "That money that I was supposed to get, I won't be able to get that anymore.''

Confidence in Hurricane Beryl projection cone is 'rather low'

It is still too soon to say where the storm will wind up this weekend. The models used to forecast track have a wide spread of potential outcomes, and the forecast confidence in the official track is "rather low," Philippe Papin, one of the National Hurricane Center’s hurricane specialists, wrote in Monday night’s forecast. 

That includes uncertainty about what Beryl’s structure and intensity will look like as it approaches or crosses the Yucatan, but conditions in the Gulf of Mexico do not appear "especially favorable" for regaining strength if Beryl moves back out over the Gulf, Papin wrote. 

The key question will be how strong the ridge of high pressure remains over the Gulf and whether it contracts to the east and gives Beryl a potential pathway for turning in a more northerly direction, National Weather Service forecasters said Monday. There's certainly no consensus in the computer models used to forecast track, but a few of the projections hinted Monday at a possible northwestward turn in Beryl’s track that could point it toward the U.S. Gulf Coast by the weekend.  

Hurricane Beryl kills at least 3 people, flattens islands

Officials reported devastating damage across the southern Windward Islands after Hurricane Beryl ripped across the region on Monday, including at least three deaths and damage to 90% of homes across the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Grenada Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell said in a news conference that Carriacou "was flattened" in just 30 minutes. “The situation is grim,” Mitchell said Tuesday. “There’s almost complete destruction of homes and buildings on the island. The roads are not passable."

Mitchell said the minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Tevin Andrews, reported at least two deaths related to Hurricane Beryl.

On Monday, at least one death was reported in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, and more may be revealed, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said. The hurricane "has left in its wake immense destruction," Gonsalves said, adding that 90% of the homes in Union Island have been "severely damaged or destroyed."

Fierce winds ripped the roofs off buildings and knocked out power across the St. Vincent community of Prospect. Other parts of the island of Grenada were plunged into the dark as well.

In Barbados, authorities gave the "all clear" after intense weather conditions from the passing hurricane subsided on Monday. While there was "considerable damage" to homes, buildings and boats throughout Barbados, no one was badly injured, Wilfred Abrahams, minister of home affairs and information, said at a news conference.

Meanwhile, at a restaurant in Kingston, Jamaica, waiter Welton Anderson told Reuters he felt calm despite the hurricane's approach.

"Jamaicans wait until the last minute. The night before or in the morning the panic sets in. It's because we're used to this," he said.

'A massive warning sign': Record-smashing Hurricane Beryl may be an 'ominous' sign of what's to come

What is the 2024 hurricane season forecast?

Beryl has surprised forecasters almost since it formed, including rocketing from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in about 48 hours, and then in strengthening to a Category 5 storm. It was fueled by much warmer than normal ocean temperatures in the Atlantic and aided in that development by light winds that allowed it to build a strong inner core. 

Forecasters fear it could be a scary sign of things to come in what has been projected to be a very busy season for tropical storms and hurricanes. Federal forecasters have predicted  a hurricane season unlike any other , with as many as 25 named storms possible.

It is the most storms the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has ever predicted in a preseason outlook. "All the ingredients are in place for an active season," National Weather Service director Ken Graham said in May.

NOAA director Rick Spinrad said the Atlantic hurricane season is shaping up to be "extraordinary" − an 85% chance for an above-average year. "The forecast … is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook," he said.

Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY Network; Reuters

President Biden blames overseas travel for disastrous debate: 'I nearly fell asleep on stage'

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on Tuesday blamed jet lag from his recent travels overseas for his disastrous debate performance last week, even though he returned to the United States 12 days before taking the stage with former President Donald Trump.

Biden, facing immense pressure from Democrats following his poor debate showing, made the excuse while addressing donors at a campaign fundraiser in McLean, Virginia outside Washington.

"I didn't have my best night," Biden told supporters. "I wasn't very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple of times, going through I don't how many times zones.

"I didn't listen to my staff. And then I came back and I nearly fell asleep on stage," Biden said, prompting laughs from some of the donors. “It’s not an excuse but an explanation."

Biden then apologized to supporters, saying he was sorry for his June 27 debate performance, but stressed it was “critical” to win the election against Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.

Biden's remarks could invite even more scrutiny over whether the 81-year-old president is up to the rigorous traveling, packed schedules and other demands of a second term in the White House.

Leading up to the debate, Biden spent six days at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland preparing with White House aides. He arrived there on the night of June 20 and left the morning of June 27 for Atlanta, the site of the debate.

Biden was in Italy from June 12 to 14 to attend the Group of Seven nations summit, returned back to the U.S. early in the morning June 15, and immediately took Air Force One to Los Angeles to attend a glitzy Hollywood fundraiser. Biden returned to the White House on June 16, made a quick stop at his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on June 18, and then went on to Camp David.

Biden was in France from June 5 to 9 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-day with allies and meet with French President  Emmanuel Macron .

Biden has vowed he's not bowing out of the race despite growing concerns from Democrats, including on Tuesday from the first Democrat in Congress to call for him to withdraw, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas.

Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.

Korea's tourism industry urges gov't to revise K-ETA rules on Thai visitors

Specific guidelines needed to screen potential illegal immigrants: industry insiders

Korea should adopt more detailed guidelines for immigration authorities to effectively identify potential illegal immigrants among large numbers of incoming tourists, which is essential for addressing growing complaints from Thai travelers who have been denied entry to Korea, according to Korean tourism industry insiders, Monday.

Without prompt measures, anti-Korean sentiment is feared to escalate in the Southeast Asian country, they said.

These comments come amid an online movement in Thailand to boycott trips to Korea, which has been gaining momentum since late last year. Many Thais have reported being denied entry at Korean airports despite obtaining approval through the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before their departure. Korea is temporarily allowing travelers from 22 countries to enter the country without K-ETA registration until the end of this year, but it excluded Thailand, citing a larger number of Thais staying here illegally.

Several tourism agency officials and interpreters told The Korea Times that since the online campaign advising against travel to Korea emerged in Thailand last year, the industry has suffered significant damage.

"I have not had any private tours from Thailand this year," said one interpreter-guide, who specializes in Thai, on condition of anonymity. "I've heard that several guides specializing in Thai tourists in Seoul have left the industry due to a lack of visitors," she added.

Another tour agency official, specializing in guiding independent travelers and also requesting anonymity, noted that he has seen "zero private tours" by Thai travelers this year, despite the overall recovery of inbound tourism following the coronavirus pandemic.

The two have witnessed several Thai tourists being denied entry after being screend by Korean immigration officials.

“There seems to be no specific standards, it seems completely random why someone is turned down and others are allowed … They are just travelers who have prepared everything, from receiving K-ETA to currency exchange, to explore Korea, but they are sent back,” the interpreter said.

"One of my (Thai) friends has never been screened out and has visited Korea multiple times in recent years, while some other people keep getting turned down," she said, highlighting that Thai visitors "may feel unwelcome due to mistreatment and uncertainty."

Since last year, Thai users have shared their negative experiences with Korean immigration under hashtags like "Ban Korea travel" and "Korean immigration office" in Thai on the X platform, formerly known as Twitter.

Many said they would opt instead to visit neighboring countries like Japan and Taiwan that are more affordable, offer visa-free entry and do not deport tourists.

“Travel to China is now visa-free and super easy! Clean, modern, and welcoming to Thai visitors. Why risk Korean immigration?” one Thai online user wrote on X under the hashtag, “ban Korea travel.”

“I was accused of having brought too much money (to Korea) and was questioned ceaselessly like I’m some kind of criminal,” an online user wrote, while another shared the experience of being rejected for “having traveled to Korea four times in the past.”

• [ED] Korea tourism boycott in Thailand

According to Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) statistics, some 119,000 Thai travelers visited Korea between January and April, which is down 21.1 percent from a year ago. The trend goes against an overall recovery of inbound tourism, where the total number of foreign visitors to Korea jumped 86.9 percent during the same period.

As a result, Thailand, once one of the top Southeast Asian nations for tourists visiting Korea, has now fallen to third place, behind Vietnam and the Philippines.

“Korea was one of the top three popular destinations among Thais before online campaigns boycotting travel to Korea emerged, but those days are over,” Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), was quoted as saying by the Bangkok Post.

Charoen believes it would take at least a year or two for Korea to regain the confidence of Thai tourists. Also, many Thai tourists have switched to other destinations to avoid strict immigration rules and harsh interrogation, amid continuing reports of fellow nationals being denied entry.

In response, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, which aims to attract 20 million tourists this year through the Visit Korea Year 2023-2024 campaign, views the immigration issue as an obstacle and requested the Ministry of Justice to ease regulations or temporarily lift the K-ETA for Thai tourists.

However, the justice ministry maintains that implementing such distinctions, especially regarding the K-ETA exemption, is difficult.

“The implementation of K-ETA is necessary as visa policies alone have limitations in controlling immigration and preventing illegal stays,” the ministry recently told a local media. “It is crucial to exercise caution regarding temporary exemptions from K-ETA for countries with high rates of illegal stays.”

The number of illegal Thai residents in Korea has nearly tripled from 52,000 in 2015 to 157,000 in September last year, according to the ministry.

Industry insiders are concerned that this trend could lead to an increase in anti-Korean sentiment and urged the government to establish a system to better screen potential illegal aliens.

“The fundamental problem is that the government has a vague definition of illegal entry and fails to provide an accurate guideline (on how to screen people with the potential to stay illegally). This makes innocent Thai visitors anxious and agitated until they reach the immigration process,” said another tourism industry insider under condition of anonymity, arguing that the administrative measure could be seen as discriminatory.

“This will not only lead to a decrease in the number of inbound tourists, but could further foster anti-Korean sentiment and negatively affect the bilateral relationship,” he said.

“My clients keep asking me, ‘What are your (country’s) standards? Why do they screen us? Is it a discrimination against our country?’ Unfortunately, I have nothing else to say,” the interpreter said.

Tourism ministry officials contacted by The Korea Times declined to comment, citing the sensitivity of the matter.

More from The Korea Times

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• Korea to ease visa requirements for researchers
• Nine One Hannam sets new record for highest apartment price at $14.5 million
• Heavy rain soaks nation; Jeju hit by strong winds
• Driver booked for investigation in deadly car crash in heart of Seoul

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Summer Travel 2024: Record Air Travel, Fewer Cancellations, Better Airports, More Passenger Protections

Year-to-date flight cancellation rate is just 1.4% during a record-breaking summer travel season​​​​​

WASHINGTON – Despite record-breaking levels of air travel this year, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) numbers show that the flight cancellation rate for the first half of 2024 was just 1.4% – nearly the lowest rate in over a decade. The latest data from airlines reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that weather continues to be the leading cause of flight cancellations.

On June 23, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened more than 2.99 million individuals in a single day at U.S. airports – the most airline passengers the agency has screened in its history. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals this Independence Day travel season, which is a 5.4% increase over last year. At the same time, airfares are down 6% over the last year and below pre-pandemic prices.

“This year’s record-breaking air travel is another good sign for our economy as more Americans take to the skies than ever before,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “To help avoid travel headaches, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to modernize airports and expand passenger protections for a smoother travel experience.” 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $25 billion in U.S. airport infrastructure over five years. This unprecedented investment is not only improving runways and air traffic control towers but also adding gates and adding flight capacity, modernizing baggage systems, replacing passenger boarding bridges, reconfiguring security screening areas, improving safety, and more to finally deliver world-class airports in the U.S. and meet anticipated demand in the decades to come. Just this week, the Federal Aviation Administration announced $289 million in airport infrastructure grants in 40 states and an additional $1 billion in available funding to modernize airport terminals. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, nearly 200 terminal projects are already under construction to modernize America’s airports and make air travel safer and smoother. 

The Biden-Harris Administration has taken historic action to improve airline passenger rights and oversight of the airline industry: 

• The rule makes clear that airline passengers are entitled to a refund when their flight is canceled or significantly changed and they no longer wish to take that flight or be rebooked, when their checked baggage is significantly delayed, or when extra services they paid for – like Wi-Fi – are not provided. The rule also requires refunds to be automatic, prompt, in the original form of payment, and in the full amount paid. Airlines must comply with the rule by late October.  
• Provisions of the final rule on airline refunds were fortified through the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 that President Biden signed into law on May 16, 2024. 
• The rule creates a more competitive airline market by requiring airlines to disclose critical extra fees – like change fees and baggage fees – upfront to ensure consumers can better understand the true cost of air travel. The rule also bans “bait-and-switch” advertising tactics and requires airlines to clearly tell passengers upfront that a seat is included with the cost of their ticket. This rule is expected to save consumers over half a billion dollars every year.  
• Launched the flightrights.gov dashboard, after which all 10 major U.S. airlines guaranteed free rebooking and meals when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to through enforcement action.  
• Secured nearly $4 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.  
• Issued nearly $170 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations since President Biden took office. In comparison, between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• Set up a system to expand the Department’s capacity to review air travel service complaints by partnering with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general , which will help hold airlines accountable and protect the rights of the traveling public.