U.S. Unveils 2025 Visa Waiver Programme with Major Changes, Exclusions, and Updated Eligibility Criteria
The United States has officially released the updated list of countries eligible for its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), offering millions of travelers an easier path to visit the US for business, tourism, and transit.
This new list, however, also brings some notable exclusions and changes.
One of the most significant updates is the addition of Romania, marking an expansion of the programme. However, the United Kingdom—while still eligible under specific conditions—has been excluded from the broader list for the first time.
Meanwhile, no African nations, including prominent countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, have been included in this year’s update.
The Visa Waiver Programme allows citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for stays of up to 90 days without requiring a visa. However, travelers must first secure approval via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs clarified, “If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor visa.”
This update is part of the US government’s efforts to streamline the visa process, with a stronger emphasis on security measures. The US has focused on enhancing border security and prioritizing countries that maintain robust diplomatic relations and meet stringent security standards.
While the list of eligible countries remains largely unchanged, the 2025 VWP introduces key policy revisions and new travel protocols designed to make travel more accessible. For millions around the world, this new programme simplifies the visa-free entry process, paving the way for smoother travel to the US.
Here’s the full list of the 40 countries now eligible for the 2025 Visa Waiver Programme:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Israel
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Japan
- Slovenia
- Latvia
- South Korea
- Liechtenstein
- Spain
- Lithuania
- Sweden
- Luxembourg
- Switzerland
- Malta
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Qatar
- Romania
- Monaco
This new programme offers an opportunity for citizens of these countries to visit the United States without the need for a visa, provided they meet all necessary requirements. As the US continues to fine-tune its immigration policies, this latest update reflects both a focus on security and an effort to foster stronger international partnerships.
