Important Information

ESTA – Visa Waiver Programme – USA Travel

The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) allows for foreign nationals from certain countries to travel to the United States for business or pleasure, for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. The Visa Waiver programme application may be submitted any time prior to travel, but no later than 72 hours prior to travel (one application per person travelling). This application is valid for 2 years, costs $21 per visitor (approx €19) and is payable by credit card only. You can access the ESTA website from our homepage www.touramerica.ie (quick links on top of page, then click on ESTA online form) or by going to this address: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

To ensure you are eligible to apply for admission under the Visa Waiver Programme, please log on to the website link above to check. Passengers who have not received approval may be denied boarding; experience delayed processing or be denied admission as a US port of entry.
All information entered into your ESTA application must match the passport you are using for travel to the USA.

Canada Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Programme

Please note if you are flying to or transiting through Canada you will need to complete the ETA. Please log onto www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp This is part of an admittance procedure already in use by several countries, designed to assist travellers in processing their required documents and determine their eligibility for travel to international destinations. The cost of the ETA online will be approximately $7.

Mexico

If you are travelling to Mexico, you require a Tourist Visa. This can be completed when you arrive in Mexico. However, it is now available to complete online before you travel. Please use this link:
https://www.mexicotouristcard.com

Passport Information

All names and spellings provided to us must be as stated on your passport. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after your return date. All Irish Passport holders visiting America, including children and infants, require an individual machine-readable passport to avail of the US Visa Waiver Programme. Non-Irish Passport holders should check with their Embassy or the US Embassy for specific requirements. Please note that security regulations may require us to provide US Immigration with a complete address of where you will be staying while in the US. Failure to do this can result in denied admission into the US port of entry.

Flights

Ensure you check the airport terminal your flight is departing from by logging onto the relevant airline website or contacting us.

Recommended Check-In Times:
  • 3 hours for International Flights
  • 2 hours for UK and European Flights
  • 2 hours for Domestic Flights within the US

Please note that you will clear immigration in Dublin for all flights going directly to the USA. Should you have an onward connection through any European country or the UK to go to America, you will clear immigration upon arrival in the US.

You can now check in with all airlines through their airline app. We would recommend you download the app before your trip. This will also allow you to choose your seats prior to departure. (Most airlines now only allow seat assignment when you check in 24 hours pre-departure). If we have been able to pre-assign your seats, we will advise on your documentation. Please note that sometimes flights may be overbooked, so it is always best to check in online prior to departure.

Fly/Cruise Package with Cruise Line

Where we have booked you a fly/cruise package with the Cruise line, you will only be able to check in at the airport where your seats will have been pre-allocated for you. You will not be able to check in online for your flight.

Travel Documentation

Please ensure to bring all your travel documents sent to you by Tour America. Airline Tickets and Vouchers for accommodation, car hire, attractions, transfers will be required at check-in, along with Photo ID.

Cruising from the USA:

If you are boarding a cruise ship in a USA port, you will be required to have a printed copy of your ESTA approval.

Cruising in Asia:

Please check with your Embassy, or the relevant Embassy of the country(s) travelling to, if a multiple-entry visa is required.

Please note that it is the customer’s responsibility to ensure they have the required visas, etc., to enter the countries they are visiting. Of course, we are always here to help, and you can also find additional help using the following link:
https://thetravelsuite.ie/visa

New MPC app (Mobile Passport Control)

Download the MPC (Mobile Passport Control) app. This convenient service allows you to complete a portion of your immigration process before arriving at US pre-clearance, reducing wait times. Simply download the free MPC app, upload your travel documents, photo, and customs declaration information, and skip the paper form. With MPC, you’ll enjoy shorter wait times, less congestion, and faster processing at US pre-clearance.

Cruise – Online Check-In

Prior to your cruise, you will need to complete your cruise Online check-in. This can either be done through the relevant cruise line app or their website. Details of this, together with your cruise confirmation number, are provided on your original booking invoice. This must be done at least 4 weeks prior to departure.

Booking Additional Onboard Services:

Once you download the app, you are able to book additional onboard services prior to your cruise departure, such as drinks packages, excursions, spa treatments, specialty dining, etc.

Accommodation

Most hotels in the USA offer rooms with two double beds or one King/Queen-size bed. Any specific requirements made at the time of booking have been requested on your behalf but cannot be guaranteed.

Resort Fees:

We have, where possible, informed you of any resort fees at the time of booking or in the hotel description on your itinerary. However, please note these resort fees are subject to change at any time and have to be paid locally.

 

Hotel Refundable Deposits:

Most hotels will also take a copy of your credit card for any incidentals charged to your room. If you are using a debit card, the hotel will hold an amount on your debit card which should be returned to you within 14 days of your return.

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