The US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) remains one of the most significant advancements in international travel, enabling millions to enter the United States for business or tourism without the lengthy visa application process.
With the Visa Waiver Program 2025 updates, several changes have shaped new eligibility rules, participating countries, and application requirements. Here’s a comprehensive guide to how the VWP works in 2025, who can benefit, and key details every traveller should know.
Understanding the US Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program is a US government initiative allowing nationals from specified countries to visit the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a traditional visa.
The trip must be for tourism, business, or transit, and visitors must obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel.
This streamlined process enhances US security protocols while promoting travel and business between America and its closest allies.
Major Updates and Changes for 2025
The Visa Waiver Program undergoes regular reviews to maintain high security standards and reciprocal travel arrangements. In recent years, new countries have been admitted and some removed, and application fees and rules have shifted. Key changes for 2025 include:
- Admission of Qatar (2024) and Israel (2023).
- Suspension/Exclusion of Romania after initial inclusion announcements.
- Brunei’s ESTA validity shortened to 1 year.
- Updated travel restrictions for individuals with certain travel histories.
As of 2025, VWP includes 43 eligible countries. Each traveller must follow the latest ESTA requirements and travel policies to qualify for visa-free entry.
Full List of Visa Waiver Eligible Countries 2025
Below is the official list of countries participating in the US VWP as of October 2025. Nationals of these countries can enter the US under the visa waiver, provided all criteria are met:
| Eligible Country | Eligible Country | Eligible Country |
| Andorra | Australia | Austria |
| Belgium | Brunei | 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 | San Marino |
| Singapore | Slovakia | Slovenia |
| South Korea | Spain | Sweden |
| Switzerland | Taiwan | United Kingdom |
Recent removals or suspensions: Bulgaria and Romania, previously under consideration or briefly included, are no longer eligible as of late 2025.
Key Rules and Requirements: How to Use the VWP
While entry under VWP is simplified, visitors must meet specific rules:
- ESTA Authorization: Apply online and receive approval (usually within 72 hours), with a $40 total fee covering application and approval.
- Valid E‑Passport: Must hold a biometric passport valid for at least six months after entry (exceptions apply for most VWP countries).
- Stay Limit: Maximum 90 days per visit, no extensions permitted.
- Purpose: Tourism, business, or transit only. Studying, gainful employment, and media/journalist activities are not allowed under VWP.
- Travel History: Individuals with prior travel to certain countries (e.g., North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen after March 2011) or holding dual nationality with those countries are ineligible.
- No Visa Refusal History: Previous US visa refusals or overstays may disqualify.
- Travel by Approved Carrier: Arrivals must be on a participating airline or sea carrier, with return/onward tickets covering the 90-day period.
Table: Summary of US Visa Waiver Program 2025
| Aspect | Details |
| Number of Eligible Countries | 43 |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days |
| Entry Requirements | ESTA approval, e‑passport |
| Application Fee | $40 USD (2025) |
| Permitted Purposes | Tourism, business, transit |
| Prohibited Activities | Study, paid work, journalism, permanent stay |
| Important Notes | No extension/appeal, security background checks required |
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Visa Waiver
- Confirm Country and Passport Eligibility.
- Apply for ESTA online at least 72 hours before travel.
- Pay application and approval fee via official ESTA website.
- Receive ESTA approval (usually supplied via email).
- Travel to the US on an approved carrier, carrying both the ESTA and your e‑passport.
- Undergo screening at the US border where the final entry decision is made by a Customs and Border Protection officer.
Security and Restrictions
The VWP remains a privilege, not a right: border agents have the ultimate authority to deny entry even with ESTA. The US VWP is subject to ongoing security reviews and may adjust participant lists or eligibility requirements at any time in response to changing global circumstances or security needs.
Travellers should also be aware that:
- Attempting to overstay, work, or circumvent regulations can result in severe penalties and future bans.
- Dual nationals of some restricted countries may be ineligible.
- Entry via land (from Canada or Mexico) still requires valid ESTA.
Future Prospects: Expansion and Changes
With its regular assessments, the VWP may add or remove countries in future years. Nations like Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Uruguay continue to pursue eligibility, while compliance with security and passport standards remains essential.
The US Department of Homeland Security and Department of State provide annual updates, and all applicants should stay informed on the latest developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long can I stay in the US under the Visa Waiver Program?
You may stay for up to 90 days per visit. Extensions aren’t permitted, and any overstay may impact future eligibility.
2. Is ESTA approval the same as a visa?
No, ESTA is a travel authorisation for VWP-eligible visitors, not a visa. Final admission is determined by US border officers.
3. Which countries were added or removed in 2025?
Qatar and Israel have been added recently; Bulgaria and Romania, though previously under review, have been removed as of late 2025.
4. What if my country isn’t in the VWP?
Travellers from non-eligible countries must apply for a conventional US visa using the appropriate consular process.
5. Can I work or study in the US under the VWP?
Working, studying, and most performances (professional or athletic) are not allowed under the VWP. Such activities require a specific visa.
