An IMGW News Report
April 2025 has brought a subtle but significant reshuffling of the United States’ border policy machinery. For millions of travellers, fewer forms and shorter queues now await—provided their passport qualifies.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP), first introduced in 1986, allows citizens from selected countries to enter the US for tourism, business, or transit purposes—sans visa—for up to 90 days. The bureaucratic red tape is replaced by a streamlined online application known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
“As migration narratives grow more complex globally, America’s welcome mat—albeit selective—remains rolled out”
What’s new in 2025?
Romania’s recent inclusion brings the total number of eligible countries under the Visa Waiver Programme to 42. As the second EU member from the Balkans to join, its admission reflects Washington’s recognition of Romania’s progress on security, data sharing, and diplomatic alignment—signalling a broader strategic confidence in the country’s stability and cooperation.
The Essentials
| Programme: | Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) |
| Administered by: | US Department of Homeland Security |
| Purpose: | Tourism, business, or transit (max 90 days) |
| Application: | ESTA (72 hours prior to travel) |
| Eligibility: | Passport from one of 42 approved countries |
| Website: | https://travel.state.gov/ |
Eligible Countries (2025)
A region-by-region breakdown of nations whose citizens can enter the US for up to 90 days without a visa, along with notable exclusions.
Europe
- Andorra
- 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
- Romania (new in 2025)
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
Asia-Pacific (5 countries)
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
Middle East & Americas (3 countries)
- Chile
- Israel
- Qatar
As of 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia are not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme (VWP). Citizens of these countries must obtain a traditional B1/B2 visa to enter the United States for tourism or business purposes.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
UAE citizens are not eligible for the U.S. VWP and must apply for a B1/B2 visa to visit the United States. However, within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), UAE nationals enjoy visa-free travel to member states, including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Additionally, the UAE offers visa-on-arrival or visa-free access to citizens of several countries, but this does not extend to U.S. entry requirements. icho2025.ae
Kuwait
Kuwaiti citizens are also excluded from the U.S. VWP and must obtain a B1/B2 visa for entry into the United States. Within the GCC, Kuwaiti nationals can travel visa-free to member states, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Kuwait offers visa-on-arrival or visa-free access to citizens of various countries, but this does not affect U.S. visa requirements.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabian citizens are not part of the U.S. VWP and must secure a B1/B2 visa to travel to the United States. Within the GCC, Saudi nationals benefit from visa-free travel to member states, such as the UAE and Kuwait. Saudi Arabia has introduced an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) programme, but it currently applies only to UK citizens and does not influence U.S. visa policies. iVisa Travel
In summary, while UAE, Kuwaiti, and Saudi citizens enjoy visa-free travel within the GCC and have various visa facilitation agreements with other countries, they are required to obtain a traditional visa to enter the United States, as they are not included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme.
The Canadian Advantage
Canada is not part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) because Canadian citizens already enjoy a broader exemption: they can enter the United States without a visa for most tourism, business, or transit purposes, typically for stays of up to six months. This privilege stems from longstanding bilateral agreements and is separate from the VWP, which allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa but requires an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Canadian citizens do not need an ESTA for entry. However, Canadians seeking to work, study, immigrate, or engage in other specific activities in the U.S. must obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, Canadian permanent residents are not eligible for this exemption and must apply for a visa unless they hold citizenship from a VWP country.
Africa Left Behind: The Visa Waiver Divide
As of 2025, all 54 African countries remain excluded from the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), requiring their citizens to undergo the full visa process for travel to the U.S. This exclusion stems from challenges in meeting U.S. security and data-sharing standards, including biometric passport systems and low visa overstay rates. Critics argue that the blanket policy reinforces global travel inequality, overlooking significant progress made by some African nations. While countries in Europe and Asia continue to benefit from the VWP, Africa’s absence highlights a persistent mobility gap that calls for urgent and fair reassessment.
Also Mentioned (Non-VWP)
These countries are mentioned as excluded or ineligible:
- North Korea (banned travel after 2011)
- Iran (banned travel after 2011)
Stricter ESTA, Faster Gates
In a nod to security, ESTA filings now require submission at least 72 hours before travel and must link to biometric passports. Failure to comply may lead to being barred from boarding.
Not For Everyone
The scheme doesn’t apply to those with past visa overstays, criminal records, or post-2011 travel to embargoed countries like Iran or North Korea. Those hoping to work, study or stay beyond 90 days must take the long road: a conventional visa.
The Appeal
For eligible nationals, the VWP offers a frictionless entry into the world’s largest economy. Gone are the days of embassy queues. ESTA approval often arrives within hours, and border checks tend to be swifter.
As migration narratives grow more complex globally, America’s welcome mat—albeit selective—remains rolled out.
