The United States has released its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) list, excluding Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and other African countries.
According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, the VWP allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the US for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.
Romania is the latest addition to the programme, reflecting the US government’s efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties and prioritize countries with robust border security standards.
A total of 40 countries are eligible for the 2025 VWP, including Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Israel, Japan, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Spain, Lithuania, Sweden, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Qatar, and Monaco.
The updated programme aims to simplify visa-free entry for millions of travellers, making it easier for people to visit the US for business, tourism, or transit.
To participate in the VWP, travellers must obtain Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to their trip and meet specific requirements, including having a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
The US government emphasizes that the VWP is designed to facilitate travel for legitimate purposes, while maintaining the security and integrity of US borders.
The exclusion of Nigeria and the UK from the programme has sparked concerns among travellers and business leaders, who argue that it may hinder economic cooperation and cultural exchange between the affected countries and the US.
