U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Guide! Visa Free Travel to United States

I want to travel to the U.S., but do I need a visa? This question comes into the mind of every US traveler. If you are a non-US citizen, then your US visa requirement is subject to the country you belong to.

The United States government has introduced the Visa Waiver Program for countries with high passport rankings.

Yet not every country is part of the Visa Waiver Program. It is necessary that you check the list of visa waiver countries before adding the USA to your travel list.

Here is everything about the U.S. Visa Waiver Program that you must know.

U.S. Visa Waiver Program:

The U.S. Department of State introduced the U.S. Visa Waiver Program in 1986. Citizens of 42 countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and European countries, are eligible for VWP.

The Visa Waiver Program allows nationals or citizens of eligible countries to travel to the United States of America without a visa for up to 90 days. It cost $21.

The purpose of your travel can be business or tourism.

As a traveler from U.S. Visa Waiver countries, you must apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Once you get approval and meet necessary travel visa requirements, then you get a valid ESTA. You can also apply for a visitor (B) visa to get a stamp on your passport.

Before applying for a travel visa to the US embassy, check the list of VWP countries.

Countries on the Visa Waiver Program:

Australia
Andorra
Austria
Brunei
Belgium
Chile
Czech Republic
Croatia
Denmark
Finland
Estonia
France
Greece
Germany
Iceland
Hungary
Ireland
Italy
Israel
Latvia
Japan
Liechtenstein
Luxembourg
Lithuania
Malta
Netherlands
Monaco
New Zealand
Poland
Norway
Portugal
San Marino
Qatar
Singapore
Slovenia
Slovakia
Spain
South Korea
Switzerland
Sweden
United Kingdom
Taiwan

Requirements for Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

Purpose:

The purpose of your U.S. visit should be permitted under the Visitor (B) Visa. It can be related to business and tourism. You cannot use VWP for study, employment, work, or PR (permanent residence).

Citizenship:

To use the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you must be a citizen or national of one of the eligible countries.

Valid ESTA:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires that travelers must have a valid ESTA. You can visit the ESTA website, to check the eligibility to travel to the USA.

Passport Type:

You must have a valid passport for at least 6 months. ePassport is necessary for the Visa Waiver Program.

How to Apply for the Visa Waiver Program?

Check your passport for the Visa Waiver Program.
Confirm your country status.
Visit the ESTA website.
Complete application
Pay fee.
Submit the application.

Wait for the ESTA approval. It is necessary to travel to the U.S.

Conclusion:

The U.S. Visa Waiver Program helps United States authorities to enhance security, reduce national-level risks, and provide comprehensive traveler vetting with systems like ESTA.

Apply for ESTA 3 days before your travel date.

U.S. Visa Waiver Program FAQs:

What is the Visa Waiver Program?

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of eligible countries to enter the U.S. without a visa.

How many countries are in the visa waiver program?

42 countries are in the VWP program.

Is the VWP Visa Waiver Program for India excluded?

Yes. India is excluded from the Visa Waiver Program.

When did Romania join the visa waiver program?

Romania joined the VWP on January 10, 2025. But on June 1, 2025, Romania was removed from the Visa Waiver Program.

Is Canada part of the visa waiver program?

No.

How long can you stay in the USA with a visa waiver program?

You can stay in the U.S. for 90 days under the visa waiver program.

How long does it take to apply for a U.S. ESTA?

It is best to apply for a U.S. ESTA 72 hours before the travel date.

How long does it take to process the Visa Waiver Program?

It can take up to 9 months to process the VWP interview.

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September 06, 2025