The Department of Homeland Security has announced final regulations to establish a new online registration system for nationals or citizens from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program who travel to the United States for 90 days or less.

The new rules, mandated by the Sept. 11 Commission Act of 2007, require all travelers from these countries to submit an application online at the soon-to-be-established Electronic System for Travel Authorization Web site.

Multinational businesses with foreign employees and other U.S. international organizations such as universities that have foreign visitors on a frequent basis will find that online registration is not a hassle, as long as the foreign visitors follow the proper procedures on a timely basis. In most cases, eligibility for travel will be determined almost immediately.

Travel authorization under the new rules will be valid for up to two years and for multiple entries into the country. Keep in mind, though, that it won't be a guarantee that the employee or visitor will be admitted to the United States at a port of entry.

The final regulations, which are now available for comment, will take effect Jan. 12, and will cover citizens and nationals of 34 countries, including virtually all of the countries of western and central Europe, Singapore, New Zealand, Brunei, Japan and Australia.