Traveling to the US
Visitors to the U.S. (both citizen and foreign) should be aware of any changes to entry requirements. While we have attempted to be complete with this documentation, laws and procedures are always being updated, so please check the appropriate authorities' websites before embarking.
Have a good trip!
For non-U.S. citizens
A new, fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), has been introduced.
Who is affected?
- Individuals traveling on valid visas are NOT affected
- All nationals and citizens of VWP countries (including Germany)
- All accompanied and unaccompanied children regardless of age,
VWP travelers may apply for authorization for an ESTA at any time prior to travel to the U.S., but are encouraged to do so at least 72 hrs. before traveling.
A third party, such as a relative or travel agent, will be permitted to submit an ESTA application on behalf of a VWP traveler.
Approval of an ESTA application will be valid for 2 yrs., and may be updated to reflect the itinerary for each trip.
The site is now available in over 20 languages.
DHS will not initially collect a fee for ESTA applications.
The travel authorization became mandatory for VWP travelers on January 12, 2009. After this date VWP travelers will NOT be allowed to board an airline flight or cruise ship to the U.S. without an ESTA. The ESTA application data will over time replace the paper I-94W (Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure) form. For more information, see ESTA link from front page of Embassy's website (News on Visa & Travel box) and/or FAWCO article at www.fawco.org (under US Citizenship).
Overseas U.S. citizens are NOT affected.
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For U.S. citizens & permanent residents
Global Entry Program - A new pilot program managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival into the United States. U.S. citizens and U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents aged 14-years and older may apply to this program.On May 12, 2008 Global Entry began accepting applications using the Global On-Line Enrollment System (GOES). For more information about the Global Entry Program, go to www.globalentry.gov.
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News
American Citizen Services Day: Düsseldorf Sept 22
Register NOW to vote in November's U.S. Elections
US Citizen Updates
| August 18, 2010: Updated Worldwide Caution from U.S. Department of State | ||
| Accessible Düsseldorf | ||
| Getting around in a wheelchair or with other handicaps | ||
| For Our Grandchildren | ||
| For more info, go to >> | ||
| Driving in Germany | ||
| German Driver’s License | ||
| Requirements & Reciprocity | ||
| Voting from Overseas | ||
| Register and Request Your Ballot NOW | ||
| Help for Victims of Domestic Violence Abroad | ||
| You're not alone - help is here. | ||
| U.S. Taxes & Filing Requirements | ||
| Two Filing Requirements for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders | ||
| Traveling to the US | ||
| Be aware of changes to the process! | ||
| U.S. Consulate | ||
| Citizen service at our regional consulates | ||
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