In a significant move to bolster international travel and diplomatic relations, the United States has announced that citizens from 41 countries can now enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This initiative aims to facilitate tourism and business visits, streamlining the entry process for eligible travelers.
The VWP allows nationals from participating countries to visit the U.S. for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa, provided they meet specific requirements. Travelers must possess a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to their journey. The ESTA is a web-based system operated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that determines eligibility for travel under the VWP.
The list of VWP 41 countries includes: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.
However, certain restrictions apply. Under the VWP and the Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015, individuals who have traveled to or been present in countries such as North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, are ineligible for the VWP and must obtain a visa. Additionally, those who have visited Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, or hold dual citizenship with Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria, are also excluded from the program.
Travelers from VWP countries are encouraged to apply for ESTA authorization well in advance of their intended travel dates. While the ESTA approval process is typically swift, it is advisable to allow sufficient time to address any unforeseen issues.
This expansion of the Visa Waiver Program underscores the United States’ commitment to facilitating legitimate travel while maintaining national security. By simplifying entry procedures for citizens of allied nations, the U.S. aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote cultural and economic exchanges.
For more information on the Visa Waiver Program and ESTA applications, travelers should visit the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
