by 1. Eligible Nations (2025)
As of now, 42 countries participate in the VWP. The most recent changes:
- Qatar joined on November 21, 2024—becoming the only Muslim-majority nation besides Brunei 🇶🇦.
- Romania was briefly added (designation announced Jan 10, 2025; effective around March 31), but this was revoked on May 2, 2025 due to a security review.
- There are no other new additions planned at this time.
The eligible list still includes all EU countries except Bulgaria and Cyprus, plus Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.
2. ESTA Requirements: What You Need
Travelers from VWP countries must have an approved ESTA before boarding any air, sea, or land transport to the U.S.:
- Apply online via the official ESTA website.
- Fee: $21 total ($4 processing + $17 authorization).
- ESTA stays valid up to 2 years or until passport expiration.
Passport & Travel Prep
- Biometric e-passport required, valid for the travel period + usually 6 months (exceptions may apply).
- Return or onward ticket within 90 days.
- Purpose must be tourism, business, or transit only—no study, work, or long-term stays. USA Visa Waiver Program 2025
Restrictions & Ineligibility
- Travelers with visits on/after March 1 2011 to Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen are ineligible.
- Also applies to travel to Cuba on/after Jan 12 2021.
- Dual nationals of the ineligible countries are also barred and must apply for a standard visa.
3. Romania Update: Quick Timeline
- Jan 10, 2025: Romania designated to join the VWP (~March 31).
- May 2, 2025: The DHS rescinded Romania’s entry citing security concerns.
Thus, Romanian citizens currently remain outside the program.
4. Why Use the VWP?
- Simplified travel: No need for a visa interview, just online ESTA.
- Short-term stays: Up to 90 days per visit.
- Economic boost: In FY 2023, VWP travelers—18 million strong—spent ~$84 billion (≈$231 M/day).
However, final admission is still at the discretion of U.S. Customs & Border Protection at the port of entry.
✅ Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| VWP Nations | 42 countries (Qatar newest; Romania excluded) |
| ESTA | $21 fee, valid 2 years, biometric passport required |
| Stay Duration | Up to 90 days; return/onward ticket mandatory |
| Permitted Purpose | Tourism, business, transit only |
| Ineligible Travel | Visits to certain high-risk countries or dual national ties |
| Romania Status | Removed as of May 2, 2025—citizens still require visas |
🛂 Tips for Travelers
- Apply ESTA early, ideally at least 72 hours before departure.
- Check your passport is biometric and valid.
- If you’ve visited Iran, North Korea, Cuba, etc. in the specified windows, prepare for a visa instead.
- Holding a valid ESTA doesn’t guarantee entry—CBP makes the final call.
Final Takeaway
The 2025 U.S. Visa Waiver Program continues with 42 countries, including Qatar. Romania’s entry was revoked, so its citizens are not yet eligible. If you hold citizenship from any participating country—and meet ESTA and other requirements—you can travel visa-free for short visits. Otherwise, you’ll need a standard visa.
