THE US EMBASSY has reminded all Irish passport holders they’ll need a valid electronic passport if they want to visit America under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

As of this Friday (1 April), all Irish people who are able to travel to the US via the VWP need this type of passport.

This rule also applies to those who possess a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (Esta).

The embassy has advised all travellers to check their passports are valid electronic passports before they make arrangements to travel to the US on the VWP.

Electronic passports have this symbol on their cover:

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You can check if your passport is valid for travel under the VWP here.

Any traveller who does not have a valid electronic passport is still eligible to travel to America with a valid non-immigrant visa issued by a US embassy or consulate. Such travellers are required to attend an interview to obtain a visa.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

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