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Bringing my kids to the US

Hi all,
I'm planning a 2-weeks trip to the US, and I would like to bring my kids (11 and 9 years old) with me and my wife. Both the kids have their pictures on my passport, which is valid for the US.

I'm confused about the new Visa Waiver Program, allowing me and my wife to get an electronic authorization (instead of the traditional "visto") on the ESTA web site (http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/esta/).

By reading this web page (http://www.poliziadistato.it/articolo/1090-Il_passaporto_per_entrar...) it is my understanding that while me and my wife can both get an electronic authorization, the kids still require a traditional "visto", because they do not have an individual passport.

Is that right? Anyone had the same problem recently?
Thanks.

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Permalink Reply by roberto dolci on May 25, 2010 at 8:31am

Your kids need a personal passport, so if resident in Italy you need visit the Questura and ask specifically for a US type passport.

The ESTA is a pre-validation process you are able to complete once you have all your 4 passports; it lasts 2 years or sooner should your validity expire beforehand.

Please bear in mind you must print and bring with you at check in the ESTA number and expiration date. Else you won't be allowed to board.

ciao
rob