In 2025, the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) expands to 42-43 predetermined eligible countries to include US VWP ESTAs (Electronic System for Travel Authorizations) for tourists, travelers, and transit passengers for 90 days. This includes travelers for business purposes. Exempt travelers don’t need a US Visa for this procedure. This article brings you the current program details, and required program documentation, and includes an updated lis of countries that are eligible for this program.
What Is the US Visa Waiver Program?
VWP stands for the US Visa Waiver program, which states that the US has an active ‘Visa Waiver’ agreement for a ‘Visa Waiver’ program’ and ‘Visa Exemption’ arrangement with the travelers’ and tourists’ respective countries for limited stays. It includes country sanctioned travelers of 90 days. These countries facilitate similar arrangements for their travelers. These travelers can enter the US freely for leisure, business, and transit purposes. Visa Waiver Programs are an active agreement between the US and these select countries. It includes an active component of security arrangement, bolstering international cooperation, and streamlining security arrangements at points of international travel.
2025 Updates and Changes
In 2025, Qatar and Romania are newly eligible to participate, and Bulgaria has been removed. This of course may slightly change subject to their own assessments, and countries are required to have low Visa refusal, strong assessed travel security, and reciprocal arrangements with Bulgaria which has low assessed travel security.
List of Eligible Countries
Most of the participating nations in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are from Europe, with a few from the Asia-Pacific region and one from South America. The current eligible countries are:
| Region | Examples |
|---|---|
| Europe | Germany, France, Spain |
| Asia-Pacific | Japan, South Korea, Australia |
| Americas | Chile, Qatar, Romania |
A very short sample of eligible nations for 2025 includes Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Chile, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom.
How to Use the VWP
Before departing for the United States, travelers must obtain ESTA approval and travel with a valid biometric passport. Travel for purposes of tourism, business, or transit must not exceed a total of 90 days within the United States and between the United States and contiguous countries. The VWP and its benefits do not allow travelers to work or study, and those with dual citizenship from ineligible countries will not be able to travel.
Security, Reciprocity, and Fees
There are several conditions needed to meet VWP eligibility, including substantial cooperation on counterterrorism, passport security, and reciprocal provisions for US citizens. Starting in October 2025, most nonimmigrant visas will include a new “visa integrity fee” of $250. VWP travelers will be exempt, aside from a possible ESTA fee increase from $21 to $40. Entry into the US is preceded, conducted, and followed by intensive scrutiny in order to ensure security and compliance.
Top 3 FAQs
Q1: Do I need a visa for short visits from a VWP country?
No, just ESTA and a valid passport.
Q2: Can I work or study under VWP?
No, only tourism, business, or transit is allowed.
Q3: Is India part of the VWP?
No, Indian citizens must still apply for a US visa.
