The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules strictly. You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules.
Although an ESTA or VISA has never guaranteed entry into the USA, the UK government are emphasising the fact that breaking any rules can see you arrested or detained. It's unclear what exactly caused the need for this update, but stricter USA immigration rules have been put in place. We always recommend you take hard copies of your ESTA's as well as documentation proving where you'll be staying while in the US and proof of your return travel.
In regards to travelling with children, the UK government website also warns parents to have all their proper documentation, including a letter of consent if travelling without one of the child's parents.
Anyone aged 17 and under must:
- have a valid visa or ESTA on arrival
- be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
- have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian.
The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The FCDO cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.
