Washington: The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is planning to tighten entry rules for tourists from Germany and many other countries.
According to the plans, travellers hoping to enter the United States will have to disclose more information about their personal life in advance than before.
A deadline expires on Monday for objections and comments on the proposed changes to be submitted. After that, the US agency will review the submissions and may make further changes before the reform comes into effect. An exact timeline has not been published.
Affected are visitors entering the country with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), the common, visa-free authorization for tourists and business travellers from more than 40 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. This allows a stay in the US for a maximum of 90 days. In December, the CBP proposed changes for ESTA applicants, some of which are causing particular uncertainty. (DPA)