U.S. Travel Association today lauded the first flights from Chile to land in the United States since the South American country was admitted into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
"Today's arrival of visa-free travelers from Chile is the first wave of expected Chilean visitors that will add $335 million in new visitor spending to the U.S. economy this year," said Roger Dow, president and CEO, U.S. Travel Association. "Chile is a shining example of how including more of America's friends and allies in the Visa Waiver Program benefits the U.S. economy and communities across the nation."
VWP allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for business or leisure—but not for work, study or residency—for stays of up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.
RELATED: U.S. Travel Association Applauds Hong Kong Visa Waiver Program
By making it easier for international travelers from friendly countries to visit, VWP helps drive U.S. economic growth, spur job creation and create a more positive impression of the United States worldwide.
Visa-free travelers to the United States are pre-screened and pre-approved for entry, resulting in enhanced border security and a more secure and efficient customs and entry process.
"VWP works and is good for America. We ask Congress and the Administration to do all they can to expand it to America's other global partners," Dow said.
U.S. Travel's mission is to increase travel to and within the United States.
Visit www.ustravel.org.