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Introduction
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on their website that the designation of Romania into the VWP will be paused indefinitely until the US government has completed a new review of Romania’s adherence to the VWP security requirements. While the review takes place, Romanian nationals wishing to enter the US for business or tourism purposes should continue to obtain B-1 / B-2 visas prior to travel.
Impact
Low
What has changed?
Romania was expected to join the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by the end of March 2025. As announced by the US DHS on the 10th January 2025, Romanian nationals would be eligible to apply to enter the US via the Electronic Systems for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), giving them visa-free business or tourist visitor status through the B-1 / B-1 Visa Waiver Program. Romania would join the other 42 countries already included in the VWP.
Being included in the VWP permits citizens of the listed countries to enter the US for business or tourism for up to 90 days visa free. Eligible applicants must complete their ESTA application through the online US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 72 hours prior to travel.
Once obtained, the ESTA is valid for up to 2 years and must be re-obtained if the holder has a new passport, name change or change in status that affects their eligibility.
Who is affected?
Until the DHS has completed the new review of Romania’s adherence to the VWP security requirements, and Romania is designated into the VWP, Romanian nationals and their employers will need to continue to apply for B-1 / B-2 visas prior to travel. As yet, the US authorities have given no indication as to how long the pause may last.
What you need to do
For further information on the US visa waiver program, please contact the Sterling Lexicon immigration team at [email protected]
