Munich/Berlin  - Travellers to the United States have been advised to check the new regulations about online registration as early as possible.

Since January 12, travellers to the US from countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program must go to https://esta. cbp. dhs. gov and obtain pre-authorisation by filling out an online form.

Once issued, the pre-authorisation is valid for two years. Tourists thinking of flying to the US in the summer may apply online now. Some airport operators in Europe are advising travellers to obtain permission as early as possible.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) can only be used by citizens from countries that do not require a visa to enter the US. Those countries include several EU members such as Germany, Britain, France, Ireland and Spain.

Pre-authorisation must be obtained by anyone travelling to the US by plane or ship and by anyone making a short stopover in US territory. The US government has advised travellers to fill out the form at least 72 hours prior to commencing their journey, but last minute passengers will also be able to apply for authorisation.

Travel organizations recommend passengers bring a print-out of the information they supplied to ESTA as well as a copy of their registration number which has been sent to them by email.

The new regulations are expected to ease waiting times and streamline the process of passing through US customs upon entering the country. (dpa)