Vic Ryan went on holiday with his family to Florida but when they arrived at the airport to check-in he was denied his boarding pass because of a recent change to the Visa Waiver Programme in the US. one of those to be caught out by the change.
Basically, on April 1st 2016 everyone entering the US must have an e-Passport under the Visa Waiver Programme (allowing UK citizens up to 90 days in the US).
Vic shared this post on Facebook to spread awareness:
Eventually, Vic was able to board a flight to the US but not until May 4, several days after his family left and after spending £500 changing flights.
How do I know if I’ve got an e-Passport?
e-Passports carry the internationally recognised camera symbol on their front.
A spokeswoman for Thomson said:
‘We’re sorry to hear that a small number of customers have been unclear on the passport and visa guidelines for entry into the United States of America. Under the US government guidelines anyone travelling after 1st April 2016 requires an electronic passport.
‘In line with these guidelines, customers are asked to read about and obtain relevant documentation that meets the entry requirements. We also advise customers it’s their responsibility to check the passport, visa and health requirements for their holiday destination on the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office website.
‘However, given this is a recent change and to help customers, we will review if we can highlight the requirement of an electronic passport on relevant customer communications.’
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