Romania Removed from Visa Waiver Program

By Joseph & Hall P.C.

Effective May 2, 2025, Romania has been removed from the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This policy shift was announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in coordination with the U.S. Department of State.

The VWP allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. DHS stated that Romania no longer meets the program’s statutory requirements and cited concerns about immigration compliance and national security.

While DHS did not provide specific details, the agency emphasized that the integrity of the VWP must be upheld. Romania may reapply for VWP designation in the future if it addresses the identified issues and meets all eligibility criteria.

Travelers from Romania will now be required to apply for a visa before entering the United States, marking a significant change for Romanian nationals and U.S.-bound tourism.