December 31, 2009

DHS Extends REAL ID Deadline

On December 19, 2009, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it was extending the December 31, 2009 deadline for material compliance with the REAL ID Act of 2005 until further notice. Many states have rallied against implementing the measure and remain behind on making the necessary compliance changes. The REAL ID Act sets requirements for state driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, from accepting a state driver’s license or identification card unless it has been issued by a state that has met those requirements. The requirements include certain security and authentication procedures for issuing state driver’s licenses and identification cards. DHS said it was extended the material compliance deadline so holiday travel would not be disrupted. The May 10, 2011 deadline for full compliance with the REAL ID Act remains in effect.

As of January 12, 2009, VWP visitors are required to obtain an ESTA approval in order to travel to the U.S. pursuant to the program. The VWP permits individuals from participating countries to travel to the U.S. for 90 days or less for business or tourism without first obtaining a visa. ESTA is a security measure used to ensure that individuals seeking to travel to the U.S. under the VWP are authorized to enter the U.S. For more information on ESTA, visit the CBP’s ESTA website. For more information on the VWP, visit the DOS website and the CBP website.