As of 8th September 2010, all visitors to the USA who do no not require an entry visa will be charged 14 dollars. This information has been confirmed by the US National Security Department and they have stated that 10 of the 14 dollars will be used for promoting the country, the rest being used for covering the administrative costs regarding the obligatory electronic authorisation which is required for travelling.

From September onwards, all visitors belonging to one of the 35 countries which are exempt from the need to possess an entry visa for the USA must register in advance within the “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” (ESTA), and must pay the obligatory amount of 14 USD which will go towards the Travel Promotion Act. This recently created public-private corporation will be responsible for promoting the United States as a premier tourist destination and will also create employment within the sector.