Beginning January 15, 2005, eligible Chinese nationals who wish to visit the United States temporarily for business (B1) or tourism (B2) will be issued visas that are valid for 12 months and multiple entries.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) today launched a traveler awareness campaign to inform the millions of visitors who will travel to the United States this holiday season. For a speedy and trouble free entry, CBP has provided tips on proper documentation and U.S. entry requirements and procedures.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a cable reminding all the embassies and consular posts of the two key dates – September 30, when VWP travelers will be enrolled in USVISIT; and October 26, as of when VWP travelers must present a valid machinereadable passport (MRP) or U.S. visa for admission to the U.S.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Robert C. Bonner announced today new discretion for CBP officers to grant norisk travelers who overstayed under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) on a prior visit a onetime parole. The use of discretion by CBP supervisors will avoid the detention and handcuffing which Commissioner Bonner said was "inappropriate" for minor violations of the Visa Waiver Program.

As a part of the border management system introduced at airports and seaports earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced that it will pilot and evaluate USVISIT automated biometric exit procedures for foreign visitors. Biometric technology – digital finger scans and digital photographs – helps make USVISIT simple and effective.