The United States has published its list of eligible countries for the 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), featuring several key updates. Notably, the United Kingdom is excluded from general eligibility but remains eligible under specific conditions.
No African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, or South Africa, are included.
A major update is the addition of Romania, reflecting the US government’s focus on strengthening diplomatic ties and prioritising nations with strong border security measures.
The VWP, as outlined by the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, permits citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without needing a visa.
Travellers must obtain valid Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) approval before their journey and meet all specified criteria. Those who prefer can still apply for a visitor visa instead.
The 2025 VWP brings changes to travel policies and eligibility requirements, simplifying visa-free entry for millions while enhancing access for business and tourism.
Eligible Countries for the 2025 Visa Waiver Programme
A total of 40 countries have been approved under the updated programme:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
