Essential Knowledge for Business Journeys to the U.S.A.
In recent developments, the United States has implemented stricter entry controls and a more restrictive stance towards certain travelers. This shift has led to changes in travel advice from the Foreign Office and adjustments in company travel policies.
One of the noticeable changes is the increasing preference for the B-visa over the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (Esta) by nine percent of companies. This shift is likely a response to the more thorough scrutiny of travelers at the border.
The new regulations, while not yet in effect, include a potential complete exclusion of certain nationalities from staying in the USA. Countries currently affected by US Esta suspension or restriction are not explicitly listed, but it's important to note that travelers with a travel history to certain countries, such as China and South Korea, may face individual impacts.
The legal basis for visa-free entry via the Esta system has not formally changed, but there is a new political announcement to apply existing rules more consistently. This means US border officials are to look more closely in case of uncertainties, review applications more critically, and order additional interviews if necessary.
It's essential to remember that approval through the ESTA system does not guarantee entry, as the final decision lies with the border officer. Communication at the border desk should be precise, and it is recommended to clearly state "business" when asked about the purpose of the trip.
Entry may be denied if there are doubts about the plausibility of the given information, such as stays in countries with special visa requirements, even if there are no corresponding stamps in the passport. Freelance work can pose challenges when entering the USA, particularly for self-employed individuals and digital nomads who work independently. Border officers tend to scrutinize such cases closely.
In light of these changes, companies are advised to train employees on handling sensitive data before travel, and devices should be specifically configured for the trip. Access to sensitive company data should preferably be via the cloud, not local files.
Thirty-five percent of companies want to prepare their employees more specifically for the situation at the US border. Around 26 percent of companies now routinely check whether basic requirements such as the validity of the Esta application are met.
Electronic devices can be searched as part of a secondary inspection, including VPN connections, work emails, or protected communication channels. Travelers should be aware of this and take necessary precautions to protect their privacy.
Interestingly, the gender entry in the Esta or visa application must only be "male" or "female". The gender entry at birth is decisive, regardless of later changes or the use of an "X" in the passport.
The provided information is from a German-language service and news portal that informs readers about life and work abroad. It's crucial for travelers and companies to stay informed about these changes and adjust their travel preparations accordingly.
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