Embassy Officers Engage with Slovak Students on Visa Waiver, U.S. Elections

October 23, 2008

With many of the requirements for Slovakia's entry into the Visa Waiver Program met -- and the U.S. Presidential elections just two weeks away -- ten Embassy officers traveled to 19 high schools throughout Slovakia on October 21 to explain both issues to students and local media. While unable to confirm an exact date when Slovaks may begin to travel to the U.S. without a visa, the officers clarified that Slovakia is very likely to qualify and visa-free travel could begin in mid-November. Altogether the American officers spoke to over 1,000 students during the day and left publications for each school to use in libraries and American studies classes. Several of the officers gave interviews to local television stations after speaking to students, explaining requirements for traveling on the Visa Waiver Program: a biometric passport and an electronic travel authorization (ESTA) obtained beforehand on-line. Students and media also asked about the important issues facing the United States in the upcoming elections and how U.S.-Slovak relations might change. On October 7, 10 other officers traveled to another 21 high schools with the same message, blanketing Slovakia with much needed information on the Visa Waiver Program and setting the stage for continuity in U.S – Slovak relations under a new administration.