US snubs Nigeria, UK, and others in 2025 Visa Waiver List
The United States has released its 2025 Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) list, with 40 countries approved for visa-free travel. Notably, the UK and all African nations remain excluded.
A major update includes the addition of Romania, reflecting shifting diplomatic ties and security policies. While the UK is not on the list, it remains eligible under specific conditions. African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, continue to be excluded, as no country from the continent has been granted visa-free access.
The VWP allows nationals of approved countries to visit the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they secure Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval beforehand. Travelers who prefer a visa still have the option to apply.
The 2025 update focuses on strengthening border security while maintaining ease of travel for qualifying nations. The full list of participating countries includes:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Israel, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Japan, Slovenia, Latvia, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Spain, Lithuania, Sweden, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Qatar, Romania, and Monaco.
Despite efforts to streamline visa-free travel, the exclusion of the UK and African nations remains a key talking point in global travel discussions.