The United States has published the list of countries eligible for its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), with no African nation, including Nigeria, Ghana, or South Africa, making the cut.
While the list largely remains unchanged, Romania has been newly added, reflecting the US government’s focus on strengthening security checks and prioritising nations with strong diplomatic and border security standards.
The United Kingdom is also not included in the VWP but remains eligible under certain conditions.
According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, the VWP allows citizens of participating countries to enter the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. However, travellers must secure approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before their trip.
The 2025 programme includes 40 countries, offering their citizens visa-free access to the US for business, tourism, and transit.
Full List of Eligible Countries for 2025 VWP:
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Chile
- Czech Republic
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Israel
- Japan
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
The updated policy aims to streamline visa-free entry, making it easier for millions to visit the US for various purposes.