Planning a trip to the States in the near future? Take heed - the Irish Travel Agents Association is reminding all Irish passport holders of changes to its Visa Waiver Programme. All Irish people able to travel to the US via the Visa Waiver system will now need an electronic passport under new rules that came into effect today. The rule applies even to passport holders who possess a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). Those without a valid electronic passport can still travel but will need a valid non-immigrant visa issued by a US embassy or consulate. CEO of Irish Travel Agent's Association Pat Dawson encouraged people travelling to the US to check their passport before departure. He said: "I believe there are 171,000 that fall into the gap. Those travelling to the US in the next week or two should contact the US Embassy to get their visa allocated." Not sure if you're one of the 171,000 without an electronic passport? Electronic passports carry the following the symbol.