Proposed ESTA Application Update to Require Selfie Submission

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Key Takeaways:

New ESTA update may require travelers to submit a selfie for enhanced security and expedited visa-free entry authorizations.
Third parties applying for ESTA must also provide a selfie of the applicant to maintain robust identity verification.
CBP’s proposal aims to standardize ESTA application processes and is open for public comments for 30 days before implementation.

What Is the New Proposed Update to the ESTA Application?

The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is planning to update the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application process to include a requirement for travelers to submit a selfie. ESTA is an electronic program used by foreign travelers who can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program. This system aims to enhance travel security and expedite visa-free entry authorizations.

Proposed ESTA Application Update to Require Selfie Submission

The CBP recently proposed this update, intending to align the application process between the ESTA website and the ESTA Mobile application. According to the proposal, travelers will need to provide a photograph of their face, in addition to their passport photo.

“We are aiming to ensure that the person applying is the rightful possessor of the document being used to obtain ESTA authorization,” explained the CBP in the proposal. “[These photos] will help to verify the identity of the applicant more accurately.”

Will Third Parties Still Be Able to Apply for ESTA on Behalf of Travelers?

Yes, third parties can continue to apply on behalf of travelers. However, with the new update, third parties, such as travel agents or family members, will also be required to submit a selfie of the applicant. This is to ensure that the identity verification remains robust even when a third party is handling the application.

The Miami Herald highlighted, “CBP stressed that despite the new requirement, third parties will still be able to assist applicants. However, they will need to provide a picture of the individual for whom the ESTA authorization is being processed.”

Why Is the Selfie Requirement Being Introduced?

Currently, the ESTA Mobile app requires all applicants to take a live photo of their face. This photo is then used during the ESTA Mobile application process to verify the applicant’s identity. By incorporating the selfie requirement into the ESTA website application, the CBP aims to standardize and streamline the two processes.

This update is part of a broader effort to enhance security measures and ensure rightful authorization. If an applicant’s selfie didn’t match their passport photo, the CBP would have cause for further investigation to prevent fraud or identity theft.

How Will the New Proposal Be Implemented?

The proposal by CBP will be open for public comments for 30 days from the date of announcement. If approved, the new rules will be implemented shortly after this period. This approach allows stakeholders and the general public to voice any concerns or provide feedback on the proposed changes.

To get more detailed information about this proposal and other related policies, you can visit the official US Customs and Border Protection website.

What Should Applicants Do to Prepare for This Update?

To prepare for the potential implementation of this change, applicants should:

Ensure They Have a Recent Selfie: Make sure that it meets the common requirements for government documentation, similar to passport photo criteria.
Stay Updated: Monitor the CBP announcements and any updates regarding the ESTA application process.
Communicate with Travel Agents and Family Members: If you are having someone else apply on your behalf, make sure they are informed about the new requirements.

What Are the Benefits of This Proposed Change?

The proposed selfie requirement aims to provide several benefits:

Enhanced Security: Ensuring the person applying is the rightful document owner.
Standardization: Aligning the ESTA website and mobile application processes.
Increased Efficiency: Reducing the risk of identity theft and fraud, potentially speeding up the application process.

Potential Concerns Regarding the New Requirement

Introducing a selfie requirement might raise concerns among privacy advocates and travelers who are wary of providing additional personal data. CBP needs to address these concerns by ensuring all collected photos are stored securely and used strictly for verification purposes.

From the user’s perspective, ensuring data security and understanding how their selfies will be used and protected are legitimate concerns that the CBP must systematically address.

Final Thoughts

The proposed update to the ESTA application by the US Customs and Border Protection signifies a drive towards more secure and efficient travel processes. By requiring a selfie in addition to a passport photo, the CBP aims to strengthen its identity verification measures and streamline the ESTA application process for all travelers.

Whether applying for ESTA independently or through a third party, being aware of and prepared for these changes will ensure a smooth application process, should the proposal be approved. For official updates and more detailed information on ESTA applications, referring to the US Customs and Border Protection website is always advisable.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Immigration Terminology:

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization):
Definition: An electronic system administered by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows eligible travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries to seek approval for visa-free entry into the United States. The ESTA application process aims to enhance travel security and expedite the authorization process.
Selfie Requirement:
Definition: A new component proposed by CBP for the ESTA application process, where travelers, or third parties on their behalf, are required to submit a live photo of their face in addition to their passport photo. The selfie helps verify the applicant’s identity, strengthening security measures and facilitating identity confirmation.
Third Parties:
Definition: Individuals or entities, such as travel agents or family members, who can apply for ESTA on behalf of travelers. With the new proposal, third parties must also submit a selfie of the applicant to ensure robust identity verification, even when a third party is assisting in the application process.
Identity Verification:
Definition: The process of confirming the identity of an individual seeking immigration authorization. In the context of ESTA, the introduction of a selfie requirement aims to enhance identity verification procedures, ensuring that the applicant is the legitimate document holder and reducing the risk of fraud or identity theft.
Public Comments Period:
Definition: A specific duration, as in the case of CBP’s proposal for ESTA updates, during which the proposed changes are open for feedback and comments from stakeholders and the general public. This period enables interested parties to voice concerns, provide input, or suggest modifications before the implementation of new regulations.

This Article In A Nutshell:

The US CBP plans to update the ESTA application process, requiring travelers to submit a selfie for better identity verification. Third parties assisting applicants must also provide a selfie. This change aims to enhance security, streamline processes, and prevent fraud. Stakeholders can comment on the proposal before implementation. Stay updated to smoothly navigate the new requirements.
— By VisaVerge.com