President Bush has approved new legislation that aims to send out more of a 'welcoming message' to foreign tourists visiting the US. The move is being hailed by the US travel industry as ‘the most significant travel reform since 9/11', and is expected strengthen and expand the Visa Waiver Programme allowing more people to holiday in the US visa-free.
The legislation should mean a more 'efficient and welcoming' arrival at inbound airports through better queue management and new welcome videos. An additional 200 US Customs and Border Protection officers are also to be drafted in to help improve waiting times at these airports.
Roger J. Dow, president and chief executive officer of the Travel Industry Association of America said: "This is the most significant travel reform since 9/11 and sends a clear message to our friends around the world that we want them to visit and they will have a positive experience when they arrive...We thank President Bush and all of the Congressional leaders who have worked tirelessly to pass this legislation."
A TIA spokeswoman has said that it would take a few years for all of the requirements to be put into place.
