As reported by Lenta.ru citing The Daily Telegraph, the system will be fully operational from January 12, 2009. From that point, Britons wishing to travel to America will have to apply via the Internet to the ESTA electronic authorization system and, after filling in the appropriate forms, receive approval from security services. According to one of the heads of the U.S. Customs Service, Paul Morris, in 99.6% of cases, permission will be obtained in "four seconds". In case of refusal, it remains possible to submit documents in the usual manner through the embassy.
The official advised starting the application process at least three days before the flight and explained that the new system would allow identifying individuals posing a security threat well in advance, even before boarding the plane, while also simplifying procedures for ordinary citizens, which would help improve America's image as a hospitable country.
The innovation replaces the current I-94 form, which was mandatory for British citizens visiting the United States. To authorize in the ESTA system, it is required to enter first name, last name, passport number, and year of birth. Use of the system is free, and the obtained permission is valid for two years.