The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) 2025 incorporates 43 countries whose nationals can visit the United States either on leisure or business trips of up to 90 days without a visa. As part of this program, entry to the country becomes easier since citizens of eligible countries can travel with an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Planned updates for 2025 include the addition of Qatar and the removal of Bulgaria and Romania following a reassessment of security and reciprocity requirements.
Visa Waiver Program New Rules (2025)
Starting in 2025, all travelers under the VWP must:
- Hold an electronic passport issued by a participating member country.
- Obtain ESTA approval prior to travel to the U.S.
- Not have visited countries deemed high-risk within the past five years.
- Not hold dual nationality with restricted or high-risk countries.
- Use VWP entry only for tourism, business, or transit – not for employment or study.
Additionally, U.S. visa interview policies for non-VWP travelers have become stricter. Beginning September 2, 2025, most nonimmigrant visa applicants are required to attend an in-person interview as part of updated screening protocols.
Complete List of Visa Waiver Program Countries (2025)
The 43 VWP countries are primarily high-income, developed nations across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and parts of South America. Below is the updated list for 2025:
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Portugal
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan*
- United Kingdom
- Qatar (new in 2025)
*Taiwan participates under special terms.
Visa Waiver Program Snapshot 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Countries | 43 |
| Maximum Stay | 90 days |
| Entry Requirement | Electronic passport and ESTA approval |
| New Country Added | Qatar |
| Removed Countries | Bulgaria, Romania |
FAQs – Visa Waiver Program 2025
Q1: Do citizens of the removed countries remain eligible for the VWP?
No. As of 2025, Bulgaria and Romania have been removed from the program. Citizens from these countries will now require a U.S. visa.
Q2: What is ESTA and how does it work?
Under the VWP, travelers must obtain ESTA authorization before their trip. This online system screens applicants and grants permission to travel to the U.S. ESTA approval is valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
Q3: Are there any restrictions on activities under the VWP?
Yes. The VWP only allows entry for tourism, business meetings, or transit. It cannot be used for employment, study, or long-term residency.
These updates to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) in 2025 are part of ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to enhance border security while maintaining streamlined travel for trusted partner nations. Travelers from eligible countries should confirm they meet ESTA and passport requirements before planning their trip.
