VISA WAIVER COUNTRIES REGISTRATION PRIOR TO ENTER USA

There are new regulations governing travel to the United States of America under the visa waiver program. As Italy is a visa waiver country all Italian nationals planning to avail themselves of visa-free travel are required to register their travel using Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA  http://cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/esta/ ) prior to seeking entry in the United States.

As of September 8, 2010, new ESTA registrations will carry a $14 fee. 
ESTA registrations are currently valid for two years.  Those with current ESTA registrations need not pay and can continue to pursue qualifying travel under their valid registration.  Note that ESTA registration is not required for those with valid visas, nor is it required for diplomatic travel.

These two websites are also useful for additional questions and information about ESTA:

ESTA FAQs: https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/list/kw/esta/p/0/c/0

Visa Waiver Program Info: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html

Visa Waiver Program travelers based in Zambia should be advised to review the websites and  direct any additional queries to consularlusaka@state.gov