US Updates 2025 Visa Waiver Programme – UK, Nigeria, and Other Nations Left Out as Romania Joins the List of 40 Eligible Countries
Washington, D.C. – The United States has released its updated list of countries eligible for the 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), excluding major nations like the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa from visa-free entry.
The UK, while left off the general list, remains eligible under specific conditions, maintaining access through alternative agreements.
A notable addition to this year’s VWP list is Romania, marking a significant expansion of the programme, which allows visa-free entry for up to 90 days for tourism and business.
Stricter Entry Rules and Security Focus
The US Bureau of Consular Affairs emphasized new security measures, prioritizing diplomatic ties and border security standards when selecting eligible countries. Travelers must obtain a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before entering the US.
According to the agency,
“If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor visa.”
40 Countries Approved for Visa-Free Travel
With the latest update, 40 nations now qualify for visa-free travel to the United States. See the full list below:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Israel
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Japan
- Slovenia
- Latvia
- South Korea
- Liechtenstein
- Spain
- Lithuania
- Sweden
- Luxembourg
- Switzerland
- Malta
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Qatar
- Romania
- Monaco
The new policy changes aim to streamline travel while tightening security protocols. However, the continued exclusion of major African and Asian nations may raise concerns over the equity of the programme’s selection criteria.
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