Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana, among other African countries, are not included in the United States of America’s (USA) new visa waiver program for 2025 as the government adjusts its policies on permit privilege eligibility and other issues.
The US Department of State has published the 2025 visa waiver program (VWP) update, which includes a revised list of eligible countries and new travel regulations.
This change streamlines visa-free entrance into the United States for millions of people worldwide, making business, tourism, and transit travel more accessible.
However, while the new VWP provides exciting options for foreign travellers from many nations, some are disappointed by the latest development.
The 2025 visa waiver programme comprises 40 nations whose people can visit the United States without a visa.
Romania is new to the list this year. However, Taiwan and the United Kingdom remain eligible under certain conditions.
The list includes Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, and Israel.
Others include Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Japan, Slovenia, Latvia, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Spain, Lithuania, Sweden, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Qatar, among others.
What does the US Visa Waiver Program mean?
The visa waiver program allows travellers from qualified nations to enter the United States without a visa for up to 90 days for vacation or business.
Instead of going through the lengthy visa process, qualified individuals can apply for an electronic system for travel authorization (ESTA) before departure.
What changed in 2025 VWP?
While most of the VWP list stays untouched, the addition of Romania represents a substantial update. The United States has prioritized countries with strong diplomatic ties and border security norms.
Nonetheless, Romania, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom are excluded from the US visa and interview waiver program until 2025.
Culled from Businessday
