Originally Posted by flycatcher

According to the VisitUSA.org.uk site that sunrisegirl referenced above, the date is still 12th Jan, 2009. However, I can't seem to find any date on the 'official' DHS ESTA site. Can anyone point me to anything that confirms it is still voluntary until that date?

EDIT: http://london.usembassy.gov/dhs/ESTA..._Travelers.pdf seems to confirm it's still Jan 12.

I'm travelling to the US in a couple of weeks, returning on 31 Dec. Since I've left things a bit late in case the system rejects me (I can't think why it would though) I thought it might be better not to risk it...

EDIT: Hmmm... Lolbert's post at the same time as me doesn't inspire confidence...