Virgin API - can someone remind me

[MrsJobba1]

Hi
I read on a thread that as well as the Esta forms you have to fill in a API.

We are flying with virgin in the summer - could someone give me details on what to do?

and when to do it

Thank you

 

[Claire L]

If you go to the VA website to manage your booking you can then enter the API setails there and it will save time once at the airport as will already be done.

Claire

 

[minniemouseuk]

I think you can also do this by phone.

When I telephoned Virgin Holidays, there was a telephone option to provide the API.

 

[katytrott]

What is this API? Is it something to do with the US new system of doing the Visa on line before you go? Do you have to do this as well as that? Or is this just with Virgin?

 

[Claire L]

What is this API? Is it something to do with the US new system of doing the Visa on line before you go? Do you have to do this as well as that? Or is this just with Virgin?

No the API is seperate to the visa waiver and it is the details that all airlines have to pass to the US prior to the flight taking off.

Claire

 

[katytrott]

No the API is seperate to the visa waiver and it is the details that all airlines have to pass to the US prior to the flight taking off.

Claire

Oh I think I remember what you mean. Didn't we use to have to fill out two forms when going out? I guess that's what I had forgotten and had got me confused.

My DH always felt the pressure at that point, insisted on staying in control and filled out the forms himself. I always left him to it. Of course it resulted in us filling new ones out in the imigration hall and him in a blind panic......ah , happy days

 

[Claire L]

Oh I think I remember what you mean. Didn't we use to have to fill out two forms when going out? I guess that's what I had forgotten and had got me confused.

My DH always felt the pressure at that point, insisted on staying in control and filled out the forms himself. I always left him to it. Of course it resulted in us filling new ones out in the imigration hall and him in a blind panic......ah , happy days

No still filol out the white customs form and green visa waiver, until the ESTA is fully operational, as you have done for years. The API was probably introduced due to 9/11 so that the US authorities had a little warning over who was travelling so they could check their watch lists.

Claire

 

[katytrott]

You know what, I'll just fill everything out. Hopefully that will cover all bases! (Probably then learn I have bought a time share!)