The United States government has released the list of countries eligible for the 2025 Visa Waiver Program (VWP), leaving out major nations like the United Kingdom, Nigeria, and other African countries.
The updated list, published by the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, shows a major shift in U.S. travel policies. While Romania has been added to the program, countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa remain excluded.
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from selected countries to enter the United States for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days. However, travelers must secure approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before their trip.
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs confirmed that travelers who are not eligible under the new VWP rules can still apply for a visitor visa through regular consular processes. The agency stressed that all applicants must meet specific entry requirements to be considered.
The exclusion of the United Kingdom is a surprising change, as British citizens have previously enjoyed visa-free entry under the program. While the U.K. is no longer on the main waiver list, U.S. officials indicated that British nationals may still qualify under specific conditions, though further details remain unclear.
African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, continue to be left out of the program. This ongoing exclusion raises concerns about fair access to international travel, especially as the U.S. tightens its border policies.
The updated 2025 Visa Waiver Program also includes new eligibility guidelines and revised travel policies. These changes reflect the U.S. government’s efforts to strengthen border security while limiting visa-free entry to select countries.
As global travel rules become more complex, the latest updates to the Visa Waiver Program highlight the increasing challenges for travelers hoping to visit the United States without undergoing the traditional visa application process.