The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of specific countries to visit the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
For 2025, the US has updated the list of eligible countries, adding Romania while maintaining strict eligibility requirements for participating nations. However, some countries remain excluded, including the United Kingdom and all African nations.
US Visa Waiver Program 2025 – Key Details
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) |
| Purpose | Allows visa-free travel for up to 90 days |
| Total Eligible Countries | 40 |
| Newly Added Country | Romania |
| Excluded Countries | United Kingdom, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa |
| Approval Process | Requires Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) |
| Official Website | travel.state.gov |
What Is the US Visa Waiver Program?
The VWP is a special travel program managed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the US State Department. It allows citizens of eligible countries to enter the United States without applying for a visa.
Travelers must:
✔️ Hold a passport from a VWP country.
✔️ Obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding.
✔️ Stay in the US for no more than 90 days.
✔️ Travel for business, tourism, or transit purposes only.
Those who do not qualify for the VWP must apply for a regular visitor visa (B1/B2).
US Visa Waiver Program 2025 – Full List of Eligible Countries
The following 40 countries are eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program in 2025:
Europe
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania (New for 2025)
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Asia-Pacific
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
Middle East & Americas
- Chile
- Israel
- Qatar
These countries meet US security and diplomatic standards for visa-free entry.
Major Updates to the US Visa Waiver Program in 2025
1. Romania Joins the VWP
Romania has been added to the program in 2025, allowing its citizens to enter the US without a visa for up to 90 days. This follows Romania’s commitment to border security enhancements and diplomatic agreements with the United States.
2. UK and African Nations Remain Excluded
Despite speculation, the United Kingdom has not been added to the VWP and remains subject to standard US visa requirements. Additionally, no African countries have been included in the program, meaning travelers from Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa must apply for visitor visas.
3. Stricter ESTA Requirements
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is now mandatory for all VWP travelers. ESTA applications must be:
✔️ Completed at least 72 hours before travel.
✔️ Linked to a biometric passport.
✔️ Reviewed by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Failure to obtain ESTA approval may result in denied boarding.
How to Apply for ESTA Under the VWP
If you are from a VWP country, you must apply for ESTA before entering the United States.
Steps to Get ESTA Approval:
- Visit the official ESTA website – esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Fill out the ESTA application form
- Pay the application fee ($21)
- Wait for approval (usually within 24-72 hours)
- Receive an ESTA confirmation linked to your passport
Once approved, ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires.
Who Is Not Eligible for the VWP?
The VWP does not apply to travelers who:
- Are from non-eligible countries (e.g., UK, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa).
- Plan to stay in the US for more than 90 days.
- Have been denied a US visa in the past.
- Have criminal records or security risks.
- Have visited restricted countries such as Iran, Iraq, Syria, or North Korea since 2011.
If you do not meet VWP criteria, you must apply for a US visitor visa (B1/B2).
Benefits of the US Visa Waiver Program
The VWP offers key advantages for eligible travelers:
✔️ No need to apply for a visa – saves time and money.
✔️ Fast travel authorization – ESTA approvals are processed in 72 hours or less.
✔️ Multiple entries – ESTA remains valid for two years.
✔️ Streamlined border entry – VWP travelers face fewer inspections.
For those eligible, the Visa Waiver Program makes travel to the US simpler and more accessible.
FAQs
Which new country was added to the US Visa Waiver Program in 2025?
Romania has been added, allowing visa-free travel for its citizens.
Is the UK part of the Visa Waiver Program?
No, the United Kingdom is not included in the VWP. UK citizens must apply for a US visa before traveling.
How long can I stay in the US under the Visa Waiver Program?
Travelers can stay up to 90 days for business, tourism, or transit.
Do I need a visa if I am from a VWP country?
No, but you must apply for ESTA before traveling.
How long is ESTA valid for?
ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
