(1) With effect from 12 January 2009, Singaporeans visiting/transiting in the United States of America for leisure/business under the Visa-Waiver Program (VWP) are required to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ESTA).

ESTA applications can be made via the US Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) ESTA website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.  DHS does not charge a fee for ESTA authorisation.

Travellers are advised to apply for ESTA at least 72 hours prior to travel. Once approved, ESTA applications are valid for multiple entries into the US for up to two years or until the traveler's passport expires, whichever comes first.

For further information, you may refer to http://singapore.usembassy.gov.

(2) The Embassy will be closed from 26 to 28 January 2009 for Chinese New Year.  We will resume operations on Thursday, 29 January 2009. Singaporeans in need of urgent consular assistance are advised to contact our Consular Duty Officer at Mobile: 1391 075 5251.

SINGAPORE EMBASSY IN BEIJING
16 January 2009

SingCham: To be an influential chamber, representing the commercial interests of its members, with access to various resources.