Romania Joins US Visa Waiver Program: New Visa-Free Travel Era

Romania is set to formally access the United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This development will allow Romanian nationals to travel visa-free to the United States for tourism or business purposes.

Visa Waiver Expansion

Romanian citizens will embark upon visa-free travel to the United States beginning March 31, 2025, following Romania's induction as the 43rd member of the esteemed Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

This arrangement mirrors the current provisions for US citizens visiting Romania, which require passports to be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date.

United States Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas announced the change in Washington, reflecting years of careful diplomatic collaboration between the two nations.

What This Means for Romanian Citizens:

• Simplified Travel: Free business and leisure travel with no visa interviews or extensive paperwork.

• Business and Professional Growth: Enhanced prospects for engaging with the US market.

• Expanded Cultural and Educational Exchanges: Access improved avenues for education and cultural exchanges, benefiting both individuals and families.

Upgraded ESTA Infrastructure

US Customs and Border Protection is updating its Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to accommodate Romanian travellers.

The enhanced platform, scheduled for deployment by late March, will accommodate Romanian travellers through both web and mobile interfaces, with authorizations maintaining validity for a biennial period.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Romanian Ambassador to the United States, Andrei Muraru, illuminated the transformative potential of this diplomatic triumph, emphasizing its capacity to catalyze bilateral commerce, galvanize cross-border investment, and invigorate tourism sectors in both nations.

"This achievement exemplifies Romania's steadfast progression along its Euro-Atlantic trajectory," Ambassador Muraru affirmed, underscoring the fortification of Romanian-American relations.

B-1/B-2 Visa Holders and ESTA Application Details

For Romanian travellers currently holding B-1/B-2 visas, these credentials remain valid for US entry. Traditional visa applications will still be an available alternative.

The US Embassy in Romania has outlined the digital framework for ESTA applications. Travellers can submit their ESTA requests through the official portal or via the ESTA Mobile application, available on both iOS and Android platforms.