Whenever the name of America is taken, many people’s eyes light up. This country is famous not only for its big buildings, modern lifestyle and the world’s largest economy, but also for its advanced technology, higher education, Hollywood, tourism and great business opportunities. Every year millions of people dream of going to America – some are eager to see the splendor of New York, some want to feel the warmth of Los Angeles, some want to get lost in the glamour of Hollywood and some want to be a part of technology in Silicon Valley.
But turning this dream into reality is not so easy. Getting a US visa is often a complex, time-consuming and tedious process. Many people get frustrated due to problems like lack of documents, interview preparation, delay in appointment.
The solution to these problems is – Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This is a scheme of the US government that makes it very easy for citizens of some countries to travel to America. Let us understand this entire scheme in very easy and simple language.
What is Visa Waiver Program? Know in easy language
Visa Waiver Program is a special scheme of the US government under which citizens of some selected countries can travel to America without visa. Its purpose is to make the process easier for tourists, businessmen and transit passengers coming to America.
Under this scheme, any eligible person can stay in America for 90 days – that too without a traditional visa. But there are some necessary conditions for this, like you should have an e-passport and you have to get online approval from ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in advance.
ESTA is a kind of digital security check that ensures the security of America by checking your information. This not only provides convenience to the travelers, but also makes the entry process of America more organized.
New information related to Visa Waiver Program in 2025
The Visa Waiver Program has become even more effective and expanded in 2025. Now citizens of a total of 43 countries can come to the US under this scheme. Romania was added to this list in 2025, while Qatar was already included in 2024.
People coming to the US through this scheme can travel for tourism, business or transit. But note—you cannot study or work under this scheme. And if you try to stay in the US for more than 90 days, you may be barred from entering the US in the future.
The ESTA fee is $21 and in most cases approval is received within a few minutes. However, in some cases it may take up to 72 hours. The validity of ESTA is two years or as long as your passport is valid.
Who is eligible for this scheme?
To avail the Visa Waiver Program, it is necessary to fulfill some conditions:
- Citizen of eligible countries:
Your citizenship should be of a country that is included in this scheme. These include countries like Germany, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore. You can see the complete and updated list on travel.state.gov. - E-passport:
You must have an e-passport i.e. a passport that has a chip installed to store biometric data. - Pre-approval from ESTA:
You have to apply online through ESTA before coming to America. In this process, your name, passport details, travel information etc. are taken. - Purpose of travel:
Your visit to the US must be for one of three reasons:- Tourism: Such as meeting friends or relatives, travelling, holidays
- Business: Such as business meetings, conferences or deals
- Transit: Visiting another country while staying in the US
- Travel to restricted countries:
If you have travelled to countries like Iran, Syria, North Korea, Iraq or Yemen after 2011, you will not be considered eligible for this scheme—even if you are a citizen of an eligible country.
Application process: Easy but vigilance is necessary
The biggest feature of the Visa Waiver Program is that its entire process is online. You do not need to go to the embassy.
- Step 1: Check the passport
Your passport should be an e-passport and should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. - Step 2: Apply for ESTA online
Visit the website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Fill out the form
Pay the $21 fee
You can get approval via email within a few minutes - Step 3: Book an air ticket
Travel only on airlines that are approved under VWP. ESTA and passport must be shown at the airport. - Step 4: Enter the US
Your final entry decision will be made by a CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officer. If they find everything okay, you can enter the US.
Mistakes that can cost you
Some seemingly common mistakes can put a stop to your travel:
- Applying late for ESTA: Always apply at least 72 hours before travel
- Using an old or non-chip passport
- Overstaying for more than 90 days: This is a direct visa violation
- Working or studying: This is prohibited under this scheme
- No return ticket: It is important to show when and how you will return from the US
Why is the Visa Waiver Program special?
The biggest feature of this scheme is convenience and speed. You can get a visa without a visa interview.
You can go to America without a pile of documents and without a hefty fee, just by online process.
This scheme works to increase tourism between America and other countries, strengthen business relations and improve mutual understanding. This scheme is a boon especially for those who do not have the time or resources to visit the embassy.
Conclusion: If you are eligible, do not miss this opportunity
Going to America in 2025 is not very challenging and costly as before. In case you are a citizen of one of the countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program, then it is a golden opportunity of yours. It is simple to apply ESTA online and it is also approved without any great hassle.
One will need sufficient information, documents prepared and familiarize with the rules prior to travel. This scheme is considered as the opening of the doors in the new world to millions of people.
And in case you also have the dream about going to America, then Visa Waiver Program will make your dreams come true.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q. Who qualifies to use Visa Waiver Program in 2025?
A. The citizens of 43 countries such as Romania in the year 2025 and Qatar in the year 2024.
Q. Should I visit the US on visa?
A. No, only an e-passport and ESTA authorisation.
Q. What is maximum period of stay in the US on ESTA?
A. As many as 90 days a session.
Q. Will I be able to work in the US or learn in the US through this scheme?
A. No, this is not allowed.
Q. What would occur were I to attempt to pass a greater amount of time than 90 days?
A. You can be also denied an entry into the US in future.
Shreya Singh is a dedicated financial journalist known for her in-depth coverage of government programs and economic updates. She consistently delivers accurate information on U.S. topics such as Stimulus Checks, IRS announcements, and federal relief efforts. Shreya also reports on UK welfare programs, covering developments in Universal Credit, PIP, and DWP news. Her clarity and commitment to trustworthy reporting have earned her a loyal following among readers seeking insightful financial updates.