OwelekeTV News — The United States has published the list of countries eligible for its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), but the United Kingdom is notably missing, although it still qualifies under specific travel conditions.
The list also excludes all African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa.
One of the most significant updates to this year’s VWP is the addition of Romania, a move that underscores the US government’s evolving visa policies.
However, the majority of the participating countries remain unchanged as the US continues to prioritize security measures, diplomatic relations, and border control standards in its selection process.
According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, the Visa Waiver Programme allows nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism without needing a visa, for an expected stay of 90 day period.
The agency stated:
“Travellers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval to travel and meet all requirements. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor visa.”
The newly revised 2025 Visa Waiver Programme introduces key adjustments to eligibility policies and travel guidelines, aiming to simplify visa-free access for millions of travelers while ensuring that border security and international cooperation remain intact.
The changes are expected to enhance business and tourism opportunities for citizens of the included nations.
With this update, a total of 40 countries now have visa-free access to the US. The list of participating nations includes:
1. Andorra
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Belgium
5. Chile
6. Czech Republic
7. Croatia
8. Denmark
9. Estonia
10. Finland
11. France
12. Germany
13. Greece
14. Hungary
15. Iceland
16. Ireland
17. Italy
18. Israel
19. Japan
20. Latvia
21. Liechtenstein
22. Lithuania
23. Luxembourg
24. Malta
25. Monaco
26. Netherlands
27. New Zealand
28. Norway
29. Poland
30. Portugal
31. Qatar
32. Romania
33. San Marino
34. Singapore
35. Slovakia
36. Slovenia
37. South Korea
38. Spain
39. Sweden
40. Switzerland