Traveling to the United States just got a little easier for some people around the world. In 2025, the US government made changes to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—a program that allows travelers from certain countries to visit the US without needing a visa for short stays. This year, Romania joins the list, while some countries remain excluded, including the United Kingdom and all African nations.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify or want to understand what this program is all about, we’ve got you covered in this simple guide.
What Is the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
The Visa Waiver Program is a travel arrangement run by the US Department of Homeland Security and the US State Department. It lets people from approved countries travel to the US for up to 90 days without a visa.
You can use the VWP for:
- Tourism – visiting family, sightseeing, vacations
- Business – attending meetings or conferences
- Transit – passing through the US to another country
But there’s a catch—you need to apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before you go.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Name | US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) |
| Stay Duration | Up to 90 days |
| Total Eligible Countries | 40 |
| New for 2025 | Romania added |
| Not Included | United Kingdom, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa |
| Application Required | Yes – ESTA |
| Official Site | travel.state.gov |
How the ESTA Works
Before boarding a plane to the US, VWP travelers must get approval through ESTA. It’s an online application that screens travelers for security risks.
How to Apply:
- Go to esta.cbp.dhs.gov
- Fill out your personal and travel details
- Pay the $21 fee
- Wait for approval (usually takes 24–72 hours)
- Travel with your ESTA-linked passport
Once approved, your ESTA is valid for two years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. You can enter the US multiple times during that period, as long as each stay is no longer than 90 days.
2025 List of Visa Waiver Countries
As of April 2025, 40 countries are part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Here’s the full list, grouped by region:
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 in 2025)
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Asia-Pacific:
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
Middle East & Americas:
- Chile
- Israel
- Qatar
What’s New in 2025?
1. Romania Joins the Program
After years of negotiations and improving its border controls, Romania is now officially part of the Visa Waiver Program. Romanian passport holders can now enjoy easier access to the US for short trips.
2. UK and African Countries Still Excluded
Although many expected changes, the United Kingdom is still not on the VWP list. In addition, no African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, have been added. Citizens from these nations must still apply for a regular B1/B2 visa.
3. Tighter ESTA Rules
In 2025, the US also made ESTA rules a bit stricter. To be approved, travelers must:
- Apply at least 72 hours before departure
- Use a biometric passport (the kind with a chip)
- Be screened by Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Skipping this step could mean being denied boarding at the airport.
Who Is NOT Eligible for the VWP?
Even if your country is on the list, you might not qualify if:
- You plan to stay in the US for more than 90 days
- You’ve been denied a US visa in the past
- You have a criminal record or are considered a security risk
- You’ve visited Iran, Iraq, Syria, or North Korea since 2011
- You’re from a non-eligible country like the UK, Nigeria, or South Africa
If any of the above apply, you’ll need to go through the standard US visa application process instead.
Benefits of the Visa Waiver Program
The VWP is a huge advantage for eligible travelers. Here’s why:
- No visa required – saves time and paperwork
- Faster entry – fewer questions at US airports
- ESTA is affordable and easy – just $21 online
- Multiple trips allowed – use your ESTA for two years
For travelers who meet all the requirements, the VWP makes visiting the US simpler, faster, and more convenient.
Final Thoughts
The US Visa Waiver Program continues to be a great option for travelers from around the world—if you meet the criteria. With Romania now included in 2025, more people than ever can benefit from easier access to the United States.
Still, it’s important to remember that rules can change, and the ESTA application is a must. Always check the official US travel site before you book your flight.
Whether you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or just passing through, the VWP can save you time and stress—just make sure you’re eligible and apply early!