U.S Visa Waiver Program 2025 Countries List Apply online

The United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of specific countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes without getting a visa, for stays up to 90 days. This initiative aims to facilitate international travel and strengthen economic and cultural ties between the U.S. and participating nations.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Citizenship:
   • Applicants must be citizens of a VWP-participating country.
2. Valid E-Passport:
   • Required with an embedded electronic chip.
3. Travel Purpose:
   • Tourism, business, or transit — no employment or study.
4. ESTA Approval:
   • Must obtain travel authorization through the ESTA system before departure.

Required Documents

1. Valid E-Passport:
   • Must have an embedded electronic chip.
2. ESTA Approval:
   • Electronic System for Travel Authorization, approved before travel.
3. Return Ticket:
   • Proof of departure from the U.S. within 90 days.
   • Travel Purpose:
   • Tourism or business only — no employment or study allowed.

How to Apply?

1. Check Eligibility:
   • Ensure your country is part of the VWP and you meet all requirements.
2. Prepare Documents:
   • Valid e-passport and a return ticket.
3. Apply for ESTA:
   • Complete the online application on the official ESTA website online and pay the fee.
4. Get Approval:
   • Apply at least 72 hours before departure; ESTA is usually approved quickly.
5. Travel to the U.S:
   • Once approved, you can visit the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business.

Application Fee

The fee for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program is $21. This includes a $4 processing fee and a $17 authorization fee if your application is approved.

Participating Countries

As of February 2025, the VWP includes the following countries:

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

Travel Authorization Requirement

Travelers from VWP countries must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before their trip. This online application screens travelers for eligibility under the VWP and enhances security measures. It’s recommended to apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before departure.

Important Considerations

1. Purpose of Visit:
   • The VWP covers tourism and business trips only. Activities like employment or studying require appropriate visas.
2. Duration:
   • Stays are limited to 90 days. Overstaying can lead to future travel restrictions.
3. Passport Requirements:
   • Travelers must possess an e-passport with an embedded electronic chip.

For detailed information and updates, visit the U.S. Department of State’s official page on the Visa Waiver Program.