Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

Created in 2002, in response to the September 11 attacks, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has a well-defined role: in charge oforganizing but alsoensuring the country’s internal security. It is organized through 15 federal agencies. He is responsible for managing the formalities for the USA.

For a stay of less than 90 days in the USA you can complete your formalities by Internet in a few minutes by clicking on the online form.

What is DHS?

The missions of the DHS are varied. It is responsible for managing the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). By filling out their ESTA form, travelers submit their personal information to the DHS, which processes it and validates or not their applications for a very specific purpose: to prevent terrorist attacks and prevent all acts that could disturb public order.

The ESTA has a double advantage for travelers benefiting from the VWP program: it facilitates the steps to be taken before short trips and, above all, it guarantees border security for the well-being of all.

Here is a screenshot of the DHS website header to allow you to identify it and discover the main menu of the site:

Homeland Security Department website header — Homeland Security Department

Security and information sharing

The confidential information collected under ESTA is secure and subject to the strictest controls. However, they may also be shared with the Department of State (DOS) if an applicant, having been denied an ESTA, ultimately applies for a visa from the U.S. government. DHS may also share the same information if it determines that it contributes tocivil rights or criminal lawenforcement.

Regardless of the context or purpose of these communications between offices, federal agencies, or local agencies, any sharing will be done within the framework of the privacy legislation and the notice of record system (Federal Register June 10, 2008).

Note: If your personal information changes during the validity of your ESTA, you will need to reapply for authorization in order to modify the information transmitted to the American authorities.