The United States has released its updated list of countries eligible for the 2025 Visa Waiver Program (VWP), with Nigeria, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Ghana notably absent.
The program, which allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days, saw Romania added as a new entrant this year. However, Taiwan and the UK remain eligible under specific conditions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, the VWP simplifies travel by eliminating the need for a visa, provided applicants obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before departure. The program is designed to strengthen diplomatic ties while ensuring strict border security measures.
The U.S. State Department emphasized that the latest update prioritizes security enhancements and partnerships with nations that meet its diplomatic and border control standards.
While the core list remains largely unchanged, the exclusion of Nigeria and several other African nations has sparked disappointment. The full list of 40 eligible countries includes nations like Germany, France, Japan, and Australia.
For travelers from non-eligible countries, the traditional visa application process remains in place.
