The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of designated countries to visit the United States visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit. Travelers still need an e-passport and an approved ESTA authorization before flying. In 2025, key changes have reshaped the applicant landscape, particularly involving Qatar and Romania. These developments are crucial for anyone planning a trip this year.
Table of Contents
US Visa Waiver Program 2025 Overview
| Aspect | Details & Updates |
|---|---|
| Program Name | US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) |
| Eligible Countries | 42 current members (Qatar added; Romania removed) |
| Passport Requirement | e-passport with biometric chip |
| ESTA | Required, $21 fee; valid 2 years or passport expiry |
| Allowed Activities | Tourism, business, transit; no work/study |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days per visit |
| Entry Conditions | Approved ESTA, valid return/onward ticket, no disqualifying travel history |
| Entry Approval | Final determination by US Customs & Border Protection (CBP) |
| Official Info | USA.gov – Visa Waiver Program |
Who Can Travel Under VWP?
To qualify, you must hold a biometric e-passport, apply for an ESTA (valid up to two years or until passport expiry), and have a valid return or onward ticket. Travel under VWP must be for tourism, business, or transit—not for working, studying, or settling in the U.S. Additionally, travelers with recent trips to certain high-risk nations may be ineligible.
Complete List of VWP Countries (2025)
| Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Finland | Chile | United Kingdom* |
| Singapore | Poland | Germany |
| Estonia | Iceland | Malta |
| Greece | Ireland | Portugal |
| Czech Republic | Latvia | Israel |
| Taiwan* | Croatia | Japan |
| Austria | San Marino | New Zealand |
| Slovakia | Sweden | Belgium |
| France | Romania (New!) | Andorra |
| Hungary | Denmark | Norway |
| Liechtenstein | Slovenia | Australia |
| Switzerland | Lithuania | Italy |
| Netherlands | Spain | Qatar |
| Luxembourg | Brunei | Monaco |
Major Changes in 2025
Qatar became the 42nd country added to the VWP in late 2024, marking the first Gulf nation and second Muslim-majority country to gain visa-free U.S. travel after Brunei. This reflects deepening strategic ties with the U.S.
Conversely, Romania was briefly added in January 2025 but had its designation rescinded in May after DHS raised security concerns. This reversal means Romanian nationals must now apply for a B-1/B-2 visa.
What to Watch Out For
Avoid applying for ESTA too close to your departure—it can take up to 72 hours. Do not plan on working or studying under a VWP entry. Always ensure your passport is biometric and valid for at least six months. A return ticket is mandatory. Overstaying your authorized visit can result in removal or future travel bans.
Who Qualifies for the VWP?
To enter the US via VWP, you must:
- Hold a biometric e-passport with a chip.
- Be a national of an approved country.
- Apply for ESTA online ($21 fee), valid for two years or until your passport expires.
- Ensure your visit purpose aligns—tourism, business, or transit.
- Have a return/onward ticket within 90 days.
- Avoid disqualifying travel, such as to Iran, North Korea, or Syria after 2011.
Key Changes in 2025
The current VWP comprises 42 countries. Here’s what changed:
- Qatar joined in September 2024, making it the first Gulf—and second Muslim-majority—nation to participate
- Romania’s entry, announced in January 2025, was rescinded in May after DHS security review .
These changes reflect evolving security assessments and diplomatic negotiations.
FAQs
Q1: Can I stay more than 90 days under VWP?
A = No—extension isn’t allowed. Apply for a B-2 visa if you need a longer stay.
Q2: What if I overstay?
A = Overstaying may trigger deportation and future travel bans.
Q3: Does my child need an ESTA?
A = Yes—every traveler under VWP, regardless of age, needs their own ESTA.
Q4: Can I re-enter the U.S. multiple times on the same ESTA?
A = Yes—multiple 90-day visits are allowed within the ESTA validity period.
