The United States is considering changes to its Visa Waiver Program that would include a requirement of 48 hours advance notice before traveling to the US.

Under current US law, tourists and short-term business travelers from participating countries can come to the US for up to 90 days without first applying for a visa at an American consular post. The proposal under consideration would require new, advance security checks - similar to the system in place in Australia.

In addition, the Congress is considering expanding the list of participating countries.

See Europe warns US over visa plans, Financial Times, July 13, 2007, for the rest of the story.