Image Source: India Times
In a major step towards enhancing global mobility and deepening international relationships, the United States has reaffirmed and widened its Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for 2025. Citizens of 41 nations are now eligible to visit the US for a maximum of 90 days without a visa for business or tourism purposes, as long as they fulfill certain conditions. The new addition is Romania as a new participant, but interestingly, India is still not included in the program.
Key Points of the US Visa Waiver Program
What is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
The VWP is a US government program that allows citizens of participating countries to visit the United States for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without applying for a regular visa.
The program is managed by the US Department of Homeland Security in collaboration with the Department of State.
Participating Countries
As of April 2025, 41 countries participate in the VWP, spanning Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, and the Middle East.
Notable participants include the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and the newly added Romania.
India is not included in the VWP, and Indian nationals must still apply for a US visa through the standard process.
Entry Requirements
Travelers must:
Possess a valid electronic passport (e-passport) with an embedded digital chip holding biometric information.
Receive authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) at least 72 hours prior to travel.
Have their visit be for tourism, business, or transit purposes only; work and study are not allowed under the VWP.
Restrictions and Exclusions
Individuals with recent travel to North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen (since March 1, 2011), or Cuba (since January 12, 2021) are not eligible for the VWP and should obtain a visa.
Dual nationals of Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria cannot utilize the VWP either.
Advantages of the VWP
Simplified entry process, without the hassle of long visa interviews and forms.
Speedier border checks and faster ESTA approvals (typically within 24–72 hours).
Mutual advantages for US travelers to VWP nations.
Recent Developments
Romania was added to the VWP in March 2025, demonstrating continued diplomatic and security cooperation.
Countries Included in the VWP (as of April 2025)
Europe: United Kingdom, 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, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Andorra, Romania.
Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Brunei.
Middle East: Israel, Qatar.
South America: Chile.
What This Means for Travelers
Eligible nationals may organize short-term visits to the US more easily and with less red tape.
Indian citizens and nationals of non-VWP countries continue to have to employ the conventional visa application process.
Sources:
Times of India, ACSComp, Hindustan Times, CNBC TV18, Business Today, Trak.in, Moneycontro
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