If you are going to travel to the United States, you must know about the US Visa Waiver Program 2025. This is because, with the assistance of this program, it is more convenient for individuals from certain countries to travel to the United States without any complicated processes. It grants qualified national citizens the opportunity to live in the USA for not more than 90 days without a visa.
Individuals intending to visit the USA for purposes of tourism or business promotion are free to exploit this program as an opportunity. They only have to verify if their country has been included on the list as an eligible nation. A citizen of a listed nation must be a permanent resident in order to travel to the US under the VWP program.
US Visa Waiver Program 2025
Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), people of 42 certain nations are exempt from needing a regular visa when travelling to the US for business, tourism, or transit. The DHS oversees the program to provide travelers with safety and security. Via VWP, travelers are needed to receive approval through ESTA.
Since the authorities have made entry easy, they have strengthened the requirements for citizens so that there is compliance with US immigration and security policies. People from all countries need to be aware of the following eligibility requirements: required travel to the US.
VWP Benefits Overview
| Department Name | Department of Homeland Security (DHS) |
| Name of Program | US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) |
| Country | United States |
| ESTA Fee | $21 (includes $17 authorization + $4 processing) |
| Mode | Online – credit/debit card |
| Review/Approval Time | Usually within 72 hours |
| ESTA Validity | 2 years or until passport expiry |
| Category | Visa News |
| Official Website | https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ |
Key Updates to US Visa Waiver Program in 2025
There are important changes that are updated in the 2025 program are mentioned below:
1. Romania’s Condition – Romania joined the VWP program in 2025 after qualifying for the security benchmark set by the US authorities.
There is an issue, though: DHSS has put a hold on Romanian citizens’ ESTAs until further review. So, travellers in Romania are recommended to apply for a B1/B2 visa until the pause has been raised.
2. ESTA Screening – The Department of Homeland Security has strictened the ESTA Screening for individuals planning to travel to the USA. Now, people require enhanced biometric verifications & early submission, i.e., at least 72+ hours before travel.
They should also know that overstays, involvement in criminal activities, and other issues may lead to visa denials and rejection.
3. Expanded Eligibility – Israel & Qatar joined the VWP in 2023 and 2024, respectively, after the DHS broadened their eligibility requirements.
This reflects the strengthening of diplomatic bonds and the collaboration of security for travellers in the country.
Who is Eligible for US Visa Waiver Program 2025
Citizens need to meet the eligibility criteria designed by the DHS to enter the VWP. So, the factors of requirements are as follows:
- Individuals must have a valid passport from one of the 42 designated countries, including Israel and Qatar, which were recently added. Romania is also added to VWP, but the ESTA is paused till further review.
- Individuals must have a valid e-passport with a biometric chip & a machine-readable area, which is compulsory for all tourists, including newborns.
- You must apply for ESTA for at least 72 hours before travelling with a $21 fee for a 2-year validity.
- They must follow the travel purpose with allowed activities, including tourism, business meetings, and short-term training.
- Travelers must take care of some prohibited activities, including jobs, studying for credit, and permanent living.
- Travelers who have visited Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Seria, and other restricted countries after March 2021 or hold dual citizenship with any of these nations are ineligible.
How to Apply for ESTA
Citizens who want to apply for this ESTA must follow the steps given below:
- Residents must gather documents such as a valid e-passport, travel itinerary, credit card or debit card, which are required for the program.
- To complete the ESTA form, visit the department’s official website. Avoid third-party websites for registration.
- After that, pay the $21 cost, which consists of a $17 authorization fee and a $4 procedure fee.
- After successfully submitting the ESTA form, you must wait for approval, which must be processed within 72 hours.
- You need to print your ESTA confirmation for border checks.
Key Takeaways for VWP Travelers
US Waiver Program 2025 offers outstanding travel comfort & highlights the importance of the rules. Before scheduling your trip, you can review the official website of CBP or DHS for the latest information. Proper planning & eligibility allow you to enjoy seamless business and tourism access to the United States.
FAQs
What are the advantages of VWP?
It is time and cost-saving, allows multiple entries, and after process.
Can one stay in the USA after 90 days?
No, you have to depart the US prior to the end of the admission period.
What can one do if their ESTA is denied?
They need to apply for a B1-B2 Visa at the US embassy.